Newcomers were welcomed to the Kapa Haka Cultural Exchange at Lawrence Area School (LAS) last Thursday, April 10.
Blue Mountain College (BMC) attended the for first time, adding about 40 Kapa haka rōpu students to the annual event.
The event was started in 2021 through co-operation between teachers and students from Roxburgh, Lawrence and Balclutha’s South Otago High School.
It was joined by the Catlins Area School last year.
"Each school has a year at hosting and can run different events," LAS teacher Eileena Kenny said.
"We always start with a powhiri to welcome our manuhiri.
"It’s been a wonderful way for our akonga [students] to experience, learn and become more relaxed during each process.
"After this we all have kai, a hangi, which the students love."
The students then split into groups for te reo Māori and tikanga activities including powhiri, waiata, kapa haka, whaikorero (speeches), and mau rākau (weapons practice) poi and games.
"Spending the afternoon singing waiata together was truly soul-filling," BMC teacher Sam Wright said.
"BMC has had a steadily growing kapa haka group for years.
"This year with well over 50 rangatahi now in our rōpu.
"We are indebted to our kapa haka kaiako ... Building the capabilities and confidence of our group and going above and beyond for BMC is a testament to their dedication to revitalising Te Ao Māori."
He praised LAS for their mahi in hosting the event, highlighting especially its three founders, Roxburgh Area School principal Paul McDowell, Clutha kaitohutohu Timikuka Walker, and Mrs Kenny.
"[Everybody] noticed the beautiful manners, respect and leadership qualities from all the students," Mrs Kenny said.
"Our communities should be extremely proud of these young adults and future leaders."
