The history behind Rata, Kowhai, Konini and Ngaio.

The school has been involved with the PB4L - Positive Behaviour for Learning for a number of years now. This has helped us focus on the school values of Learning Culture - Whai Hua, Whai Ako Whai Mātauranga, , Heritage- Mana Tuku Iho, Leadership - Mana Wahine and Community - Tūrangawaewae

So far this term we have been focusing on Heritage/Mana Tuku Iho and Community/Tūrangawaewae. In doing so we want to promote awareness among our students around the origins of the school inter-house competition as students have been participating in Swimming Sports and Athletics this term.

The current school inter-house system was created in 1947. At first the four houses were simply called by their colours. After a lot of discussions it was finally decided upon to name the houses after the native plants that connect with their colour. Hence the names that are so familiar to students past and present Rata, Konini, Kowhai and Ngaio .

The four house banners were made by students of the school at around the same time the house system was created in 1947. When they were last used is uncertain but they have been held in the archives of the Old Girls’ Association until recently.

One other little gem that also showed up was the photo of the students on the bikes. This photo was taken at the school Athletic Sports in 1927. It is the oldest known photo of Athletics, with the first sports held the year before in 1926. It is called the Slow Tortoise race. With the aim of the event being to cross the line last without putting your feet on the ground.