“To engage and build connections with each other, improving our knowledge and understanding of Māori and Pacific cultures, and to seek ways we can contribute positively to these communities”.

It’s been lovely to continue our rōpū in 2022, with the addition of some new students after the departure of Whaea Rā at the end of 2021. During her time at QMC Whaea Rā was instrumental in growing our group and cultural responsibilities; she has left a wonderful legacy for our ropu and the wider QMC community. During Term 1 we were also delighted to appoint, formally for the first time, joint Cultural Captains, Kade Read and Tia Pavihi. It has been fantastic to witness them both grow and develop their leadership skills through the rōpū , and to support our new and younger students with their learning. We also welcomed back our amazing tutors from 2021, Shar, Henry and Dan, who are now also joined by Nani for 2022.

Our focus for this year has been the ongoing celebration of our Māori and Pacific cultures, and encouraging students to embrace our weekly sessions. We are also fundraising for kapa haka uniforms and, with the loyal support of the Parents’ Association, have held several successful events; our thanks go to Alana Bicknell for championing this. During Term 2 we were incredibly lucky to have Lua Boath (Alumna class of 1985) visit us and speak about her journey at QMC. I think the girls were all a bit taken back when asked what looked like in her day; she commented that she “was it!”, as the first Samoan Head Girl, in 1989.

Te Whānau were also invited to participate in the reopening of Parliament Grounds towards the end of Term 2. This was a lovely celebration following the reinstatement of lawns and gardens, and the girls had a great time sharing kai and christening the restored children’s play area, especially the slide.

We are currently practising our Cook Island bracket in preparation for several events during Term 3 and we look forward to sharing those with the community in due course. I’d also like to express our grateful thanks to the parents and caregivers of our Te Whānau students; we always appreciate your support and everything you’ve done so far this year.

By Jane Ball

Kaiwhakahaere - Te Whānau o Kuīni Mākareta