BACKThe Māori & Pasifika Success Evening is a chance to come together as a community and celebrate all of the amazing mahi our students have done this year. The Auditorium was transformed into a celebration of Aotearoa and Pacific culture as we honoured the many and varied talents of our students. The event was proudly led by students who read citations and congratulated their peers as we awarded certificates, medals, and trophies for excellence and pride in: academic success, school values—te hiranga (excellence), he ngākau pono (integrity), he ngākau māia (courage), he ngākau manaaki (respect and care) and te poho kererū (pride)—te reo Māori, kapa haka, sports, arts, culture, and leadership.
During the awards, we farewelled our Year 13 student leavers with an emotional haka and a special pounamu. An extra big thank you to our Māori and Pasifika Year 13 Student Leaders Rylee Hollran and Nathanael Ellis-Kirifi for all of your fantastic mahi throughout the year, ka rawe. Our guest speaker was ex-Rangi student Zac Martin who spoke about identity, perseverance, and the importance of his support system—his family. The main award of the night, our supreme korowai winner, was Tamati Kingi who has demonstrated manaakitanga and te hiranga throughout his time here at Rangitoto College—your efforts were seen and your enthusiasm was appreciated.
While the music, cultural dances, and performances were a true tribute to the resilience and talent of our rangatahi, amongst all the usual fun, cheering, and pride, there was a sense of aroha and whanaungatanga this year.
