Whanau

Whanau is open to all age groups across the school and as the name suggests, Whanau welcomes everyone. In fact, the thing I like the best about Whanau is it's inclusive nature.

Whanau appoints four leaders each year. Their role is not only to lead our waiata and haka but also to encourage, support and help organise the members of the group.

Parent support has been evident during the year. This support comes in the form of assistance on Fridays at lunchtime when we meet and with making new performance poi. We are grateful for that help.

This year we also brought in some expert tutors who were able to teach us haka and poi. These tutors work at the Auckland War Memorial Museum and we were privileged to have them work with us. Not only did they teach us specific things but they also shared with us some Maori protocol and taonga.

Mrs Ann Kendall

Miss Rowena Ihaka

Whanau Leaders

Torina Samuelu

Talofa Lava
My name is Torina Samuelu and I am one of the leaders in Whanau this year. I am 11 years old and my birthday is on 31 October. I enjoy playing netball, hockey and watching television.

I love being part of Whanau because I like learning how to use the poi and perform action songs. I am really proud of being a leader this year and I enjoy learning about another culture.

Vincent Alexander

Kia Ora.
My name is Vincent Alexander and I'm a leader in Whanau this year. I am a Year 6 student and I'm 11 years of age. I love playing games on my X-Box and playing rugby with my friends.

My favourite part of being in Whanau is kapa haka. I love expressing myself in the haka and making loud noises by stamping hard and calling out the words. It's been great working with special tutors and leading others in the group.

Jade Maaka

I'm Jade Maaka and I'm a Year 5 student who is one of the leaders in Whanau this year. I am 10 years old and was born on 1 July. I love running, swimming, rugby and playing with my friends.

What is the favourite part of being in Whanau? Well, I'll have to say it's leading the songs and being proud of my culture. I am proud of showing off my Maori culture and showing others who I really am.

Faith Nuku

Tena koutou!
My name is Faith Nuku and I am a leader in Whanau. I am in Year 6 and it is a privilege to be in Whanau this year.

I have learned a lot about being a leader and about the Maori culture through songs and action dances. I've enjoyed working with tutors and Mrs Kendall on Fridays during lunchtime practices. Whanau is a great group to join and I encourage others to be part of a great group.