What an extraordinary week of culture, connection, and pride as our school community came together to celebrate Te Wiki o te Reo Māori!

Throughout the week, we were guided by the timeless whakataukī: "He ahakoa iti, he pounamu" — "Although it is small, it is precious." This served as a powerful reminder that every small effort counts. By speaking just a little Te Reo Māori each day, we all play a part in keeping the language flourishing and ensuring it remains an everlasting treasure for generations to come.

A highlight of the week was hearing from Benjamin Turner, Nyjah Simanu, Mita Tate, and Makaera Poynter, who each spoke about the deep pride they hold for their Māori heritage. Their inspiring words resonated across the school, encouraging everyone to embrace the te reo with confidence.

The celebrations included:

• Daily Assembly Korero: Daily assemblies commenced with the sign of the cross in Te Reo Māori Ki te ingoa o te Matua, o te Tamaiti, o te Wairua Tapu. Āmene. This was followed by a student who shared how proud they are of their Māori heritage
• Kahoot Challenge: Competition was fierce across the year groups, but huge congratulations go to 8RAA for taking out the top spot in our school-wide Te Wiki o te Reo Māori Kahoot challenge! The Kahoot challenge was designed and run by Benjamin Turner, Enzo Ihaka and Enoka Mika-Falefa.
• Chapel Assembly: We gathered for a beautiful Chapel service centered on unity and faith, featuring scriptures read entirely in Te Reo Māori by Tane Keereweer-Taia, Makaera Poynter, Alesana-Quinn Roberts, Heimana Turua, Junior Fiu, and Toa Nootai.  This was accompanied by uplifting waiata arranged by Mrs Tupa’i that filled the space with warmth and reverence.
• Haka Competition: To bring the week to a rousing conclusion, our houses went head-to-head in the annual school haka competition. Congratulations to Champagnat House for their fierce, passionate performance that earned them 1st place!

Mā te kōrero, mā te waiata, mā te haka, kia ora te reo Māori! Thank you to all the staff, student leaders, and students who made this week possible. Let's keep the momentum going and continue using our reo every day.