Rūnaka members were invited to the recent 20th anniversary celebrations of Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ōtepoti. A moving part of the celebration was during the pōwhiri when whakaahua (photographs) of deceased kaumātua who had been supporters of the kura were brought onto the kura. The Parata whānau were among those who brought a photograph of their pōua, Barney Taiapa.

Activities on the day included a hāngī, kapa haka performances, a uniform fashion parade, stalls, games, mirimiri and weaving. It was a pleasure to hear the former pupils who had attended the kura in the earliest days recall their memories – all in te reo Māori.

Although the kura has had its ups and downs it has recently received an excellent Education Review Office report. And the roll has climbed to 25 pupils – its highest point in more than a decade. Many Puketeraki Rūnaka members have been supporters of the kura over the years, so it is gratifying that the kura is now growing. The kura is being led by tūmuaki, Tiahuia Kawe-Small with support from board chair, Tori Campbell, who was once the rūnaka co-ordinator for our LEOTC programme in its early days. Tori is now a KMK co-ordinator and her son, Tūmai attends the kura. Rā whānau ki a koe, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ōtepoti.

Board chair, Tori Campbell.

Board chair, Tori Campbell.

Pat Hoffman and Marianne Te Tau in front of whakaahua.

Pat Hoffman and Marianne Te Tau in front of whakaahua.