The beginning of Week 4 saw 53 Year 9 and Year 10 students head off to a number of historical sites important to Ngāti Toa Rangatira. We started the day at Takapūwāhia Marae, climbed up Whitireia, then headed off to Ngāti Toa Domain where we looked at the remains of the Paremata Barracks, listening to stories about Te Awarua o Parirua (Porirua Harbour) along the way. From there we travelled to Pāuatahanui to explore some middens before continuing on to Battle Hill Farm Forest Park. For many, our last stop was the day’s highlight with the resident heihei (chickens) and tuna (eels) proving very friendly.

We were fortunate to hear many stories from the Ngāti Toa Rangatira crew, Matua Jay, Matua Karewa, and Whaea Nirvana. We are indebted to the three of them for generously sharing their time and expertise with us. Thanks must also go to Matua Jordan, Matua Reuben, and Whaea Katie for their support on the day.