Progress and Promise

At a recent hui held by Te Kura Maaori o Pukekohekohe, Whaea Rereokeroa Shaw presented Te Rangaranga o Ngaa Hau e Whaa, the strategic plan developed in 2021 to establish a wharekura in Pukekohe by 2025. "We’re almost there!" was her final, inspiring message.

Key stakeholders and more than 80 whaanau attended, including local kaumatua, representatives from various marae, Ngaa Hau e Whaa, Ngaati Tamaoho, Ngaa Kura aa Iwi o Aotearoa, Te Kura Maaori o Ngaa Tapuwae, and the Ministry of Education.

This significant hui took place at the old Paerata School, the future site of the first te reo Maaori immersion Year 9-10 class starting in Term 4, 2024. Te Kura Maaori o Ngaa Tapuwae has agreed to mentor Te Kura Maaori o Pukekohekohe in a tuakana-teeina relationship, facilitating the establishment of this pioneering initiative.

The benefits to students, whaanau, and the community are profound. Students will gain a high-quality education immersed in te reo Maaori and tikanga Maaori, fostering a strong cultural identity and academic excellence. This environment will nurture future leaders who are deeply connected to their heritage. Whaanau will experience enhanced engagement and participation in their children's education, strengthening family bonds and cultural pride. For the community, this initiative will revitalise te reo Maaori, ensuring its preservation and growth. It will create a legacy of cultural knowledge and educational success that will benefit generations to come.

This fulfils a long-held dream of our whaanau, supported by Ngaa Hau e Whaa Marae and honouring those who began this journey many years ago.