Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe – A New Chapter Begins in 2025

The start of 2025 marks another milestone for Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe as we welcomed 17 new aakonga into our kura. The warmth and strength of our kaupapa were evident as over 100 whaanau, friends, and kura gathered in tautoko, creating an atmosphere of deep connection and unity.

Among our manuhiri were Matua Ross, Whaea Atarangi, Whaea Anahera, and aakonga from Pukekohe North School, alongside Matua Tipene, Whaea Atakura, and aakonga from Pukekohe High School. Their presence reflected the interconnectedness of our learning communities and the support that continues to uplift our kura. Kaumaatua and kuia also joined us, bringing their wisdom and guidance, reinforcing the foundation of tikanga and whanaungatanga upon which our kura stands.

Embracing Hononga and Whanaungatanga

Throughout the whakatau, the korero from our kaikoorero resonated deeply, acknowledging the relationships that bind us together. They spoke of the journey ahead, the shared responsibility of nurturing our aakonga, and the kaupapa that drives Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe forward. Each kupu reflected the strength of our collective vision—one rooted in our reo, our tikanga, and our aspirations for rangatahi Maaori.

He Haerenga ki Waitangi – A Journey of Significance

As we step into this new year, our kura is preparing for a momentous excursion to Waitangi on Wednesday. This journey holds profound significance, providing our aakonga with an immersive experience into the historical and contemporary relevance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tino rangatiratanga, and mana motuhake.

Waitangi is more than just a destination—it is a place of learning, reflection, and affirmation of our identity as tangata whenua. Our aakonga will stand on the very whenua where our tuupuna debated and signed Te Tiriti, exploring its legacy and the ongoing pursuit of self-determination and sovereignty. This haerenga will deepen their understanding of our rights, responsibilities, and the role they play in shaping the future of Aotearoa.

Looking Ahead

With the support of our whaanau, kura, and wider hapori, Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe continues to grow—strengthening our commitment to whakaako Maaori, e tipu ai, e rea ai, e mana ai! This year is set to be one of immense learning, connection, and growth for our aakonga as they embark on new experiences that will shape their journey in education and beyond.

As we settle into this first wahanga, we celebrate not just the growth of our kura, but the reaffirmation of our collective kaupapa—to refresh, restore, and revitalize our reo, our tikanga, and our identity.

Ka whangaia, ka tupu, ka puawai!
Whakanuia Te Taamatatanga o Pukekohekohe – He kura whakatupu i te mana o te iwi!