A Day of New Beginnings – The Opening of Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe

Monday, 28 April 2025, marked a historic milestone for Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe as we officially opened our kura beneath a warm, brilliant sky — a welcome gift after a week of persistent rain.

More than 500 people gathered in celebration, including representatives from eight schools and marae across Te Puaha o Waikato, Ngaati Tamaoho, and Papakura Marae. Their presence was a powerful testament to the collective aspiration, unity, and hope that Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe embodies.

We were honoured to be joined by Wesley College, Te Raki o Pukekohe, and Pukekohe High School to welcome our many manuhiri. The air was alive with the chorus of karanga, and the wero — performed with immense mana by our rangatahi Tumatauenga Matekino, Peri Mura, and Rangatahi Mura — epitomised the strength and spirit of the day.

The pae koorero was rich and moving. Speeches honoured the dreams of our tuupuna and recognised the journey ahead for our kura and community. We were privileged to host Te Paati Maaori MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke and local National MP Andrew Bayly, whose presence reflected the significance and broad support for Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe.

Principals from kura across the rohe shared their aspirations, pledging their commitment to the future success of our rangatahi, whaanau, and community.

The celebration was further enriched by a delicious hangi, lovingly prepared by the talented Maaori Kai Brofessionals. The kai was enjoyed immensely, perfectly complementing the kaupapa of manaaki, kotahitanga, and celebration.

Many of these unforgettable moments were captured by Te Karere — click here to watch the excitement.

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to this special day — our tireless ringawera, hosting schools, Maaori Wardens, and all those who worked quietly behind the scenes to bring this dream to life.

Thank you for helping us pen the first chapter of Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe.

Together, we have laid the foundation for a new journey — one grounded in the dreams of our tuupuna and the promise of generations to come.
The seeds of a thriving future have been planted; now, we grow and nurture them together.

Ngaa mihi nui ki a koutou katoa.

Te Kaahui Whakahaere