After 13 years of school the 10 year 13 students graduated at Ōnuku Marae and received their kō in order to send them off into the world. 

On the 9th of December 2022 our graduating pononga along with their whānau and friends all gathered at ōnuku marae to officially graduate from Te Pā o Rākaihautū.

We started the morning with a pōwhiri to welcome everyone onto the marae. Our graduates were dressed in their number ones and adorned with korowai from their different whānau. Once the pōwhiri had concluded the year 13’s got changed and were briefed about what we would be doing next. As all our whānau gathered by the water awaiting our arrival the year 13’s made their way to a creek next to the marae to fetch a pebble. We then made our way to the water where we were asked to place the pebble in our mouths while we recited our pepeha and then submerged ourselves in the water. Once each pononga had their turn we were all presented with our kō that all had individual meanings and names depending on who we are. Most of us were left with tears pouring from our faces due to all the emotions surrounding this beautiful ceremony. 

As the now offical graduates got warm and into dry clothes family members made their way into the wharekai awaiting speeches and a feast with an assortment of kai. 

It was an incredible experience and a perfect way to send the graduating class of 22 into the world. 

On behalf of my class I would like to thank Matua Tau and Hākui Rangimarie, the staff from the office, kitchen and maintenance and of course our teachers who have given us a solid foundation in order to stand confidently in the world. I’m sure I can speak for all of us when I say we are all very proud to be graduates of Te Pā and will not forget our roots here. 

Ngā mihi nui x