KŌRERO FROM MIRANDA
Kia ora Rototuna e te Whānau,
Mānawa maiea te Mātahi o te tau — Celebrate the rising of the new year
Mānawa maiea te ariki o te rangi — Celebrate the rising of the lord of the heavens
Mānawa maiea te putanga o Matariki — Celebrate the rising of Matariki
As we move into the final week of term 2 it seems appropriate we are welcoming in the Māori new year - Matariki. Celebrating Matariki across the country and at our kura provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the value we place on our cultural heritage as we grow our sense of national identity. As a school, this week we have been participating in Matariki activities led by student councils. During Iwi assemblies Anika Worthington - McBride (Ngāti Porou), one of our manukura (head students), has been growing our collective understanding about Matariki: a time for planting and new beginnings for Māori, as well as reflecting on the year that has been. Matariki heralds a time that brings us together, growing our sense of belonging through the different interests and cultures represented in our school.
Matariki also signals a perfect time for our students and teachers to reflect on the year so far. For our students, a time to celebrate the goals they have achieved, as well as refine and continue working towards goals not yet met. Between now and term 3 they have space to re-energise, refocus and commit to working hard to realise our potential. Our Whānau Conferences are being held in week 2 of term 3 and are an opportunity to reconnect with you to put plans in place to help your student achieve their remaining goals over the remaining terms.
Wishing our students attending the school ball a wonderful night on Friday.
As Matariki flies into the world and strengthens all of our hearts I wish you and yours a wonderful time celebrating Matariki on Friday 10 July and a restful term break.
Tukuna te wairua o Matariki kia rere ki te ao, kia whakakaha i ngā ngākau katoa
Until next time
Ngā manākitanga,
