Around April 2021, there were eight hearty Yr 9’s and 10’s asking for the PI Group to be
revived in a more constant, consistent, and creative way. Last week, there were 37 in the school Teine Pasifika O Rautawhiri photo for the school mag, with a noted six absent! 

Special mention goes to the ever faithful “Max Imus” our only Yr 13 who always brings her own flavour and awesome leadership! Welcome additions to our team are the beautiful Mapihi Kelland - professional dancer/choreographer specialising in Ura/Ori and cultural performance, and the indomitable “Mama” Danielle Maguire who’s humour and blunt love is embracing the girls and supporting our foundation and growth. Thank you for giving up your time and expertise! 

I would also like to acknowledge the incredible support we get from all the staff, with particular thanks to Sarah Davis, Bridget, Janaye, Kirsty Mitchell and Cynthia for always rescuing me and helping with the admin, rehearsal space and general venting 

We are working towards various events, but most importantly we are about to start a huge fundraising campaign for our proposed cultural exchange trip to Samoa, 2023. 

ANY ideas or contributions are welcome!

2022 UPCOMING EVENTS

- Pasifika In The Bay festival in Te Puke, Sat 29 October 2022.We will be working hard week two of the holidays making costumes etc so wish us luck!

- Teine Pasifika Christmas Variety Concert (date in Dec tbc – outdoor fundraising event)

- Thursday Night market performances

We also had our first formal TALANOA evening with the parents and caregivers of our Teine Pasifika students – it went really and having their support will be key in moving forward with the future of the group and the foundations we are laying.

Needless to say, one can ever have enough (helpful ��) support…it takes a village right? In saying that, we know how strapped everyone is but we welcome any help with resources etc, as like everyone, budgets are low-low-low-low! The girls are working hard, with lots of laughter, learning and development. It’s not just dancing or performance – we are learning so much more and I am thrilled to see these Juniors working on themselves and slowly coming into their own identities as young Pasifika women. They’re amazing.

Ia manuia.