With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of Thomas Kuka -'Uncle Tame', our beloved Kaumātua who along with his wife Huia, have done so much to support our school in many ways, in many roles, over many years. Their passion for Māori medium education was critical in the establishment and growth of Te Puna Matauranga.

Tame enriched our lives with his knowledge, stories, and cultural insights. He was kind, humorous and he was generous with his time. He seldom spoke in the school setting without mentioning that the needs of all of our children are, and must remain paramount in our thinking and decision making.

Tame had an illustrious career in education, spanning 50 years, most of his years were spent in the secondary system. He was instrumental in setting up the bi-lingual programme at Tauranga Boys' College from the late 80's to what it is today. Following this time he worked as an advisor for Te Whare Wananga ō Waikato and then became the foundation Principal for Te Wharekura ō Mauao. More recently, Tame has been an active board member for our school.

We offer our heartfelt sympathy to Tame's whānau who will feel the sharpest pain at his passing. We thank them and honour them as a family who generously shared Tame with us.

Moe mai rā e te rangatira.