Tūhono Kapa Haka Festival

The Te Rito Harakeke Marshland group delivered an outstanding performance at this year’s Kapa Haka festival, showcasing the culmination of a year’s ngātahi (togetherness), whanaungatanga (kinship), and ako (learning). Guided and supported by the leadership of Matua Te Huaki, our young rangatira (leaders) stood out as one of the best on stage.

Their volume, skill and passion captivated the large audience, drawing a few tears from the teachers supporting! Whanaungatanga and manaakitanga shone as our young rangatira carried the wairua (spirit) of our school onto the stage.

Their performance opened with the Whakaeke (entrance song) "Ka Tū Te Ruperupe", which was followed by the waiata tira, "E Tipu e Rea", a new song for our tamariki, written by our tutor Matua Te Huaki, specifically for our kura. The song’s message resonates with our cultural narrative, calling on our tamariki to grow strong and steadfast like the harakeke plant we are named after. The waiata-ā-ringa "E Rere Taku Manu E" showcased our vocals and our rhythm with the poi. The haka, "Amorangi E" brought the performance to a conclusion.

Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou mō te manawanui me te aroha. Kaore i tua atu i a koutou. He ki ana ki whakataukī, mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu.

This is a mihi to the dedication they have shown, saying there are none quite like them. The whakataukī talks about how learning a new skill, solving problems, and helping others are just some of the many “feathers” you can wear in order to soar high.

If you are interested in seeing our Kapa Haka perform I have attached a sneak preview of our waiata "E Tipu e Rea", or you can come along to our Ngātahi evening to see them perform on the 6th of December. If your child is interested in joining us for Kapa Haka keep an eye out for newsletters at the beginning of next year or reach out to Jess Bond.bond@marshland.school.nz