Upcoming Poroaki and Wrap

This year we are doing something really different and we are excited! Our Poroaki will happen in the morning after the traditional evening 'Wrap' and all are welcome to come and be a part of it (just like the Pōwhiri). The Poroaki is our way to honour the contributions of the people who have been with us over the years - children, parents and staff.

Our Year 6 leavers at this event will be held up high, their mana acknowledged, their contributions celebrated and we will honour them in the most meaningful way possible.

Why is this important to us?

We have been continuing to develop our Pōwhiri, Mihi Whakatau and Poroaki. We were given the opportunity recently to learn more about the Kawa and Tikanga of these significant events so that we can make sure we are acknowledging our mana whenua, those who came before and the significance of this beautiful place we call ‘Whetūkairangi’. Kawa and Tikanga, as well as our special school context, guide the formalities for Pōwhiri, Mihi Whakatau and Poroaki.

The whole school Poroaki is to formally farewell all leavers and their whānau and to wish them well as they travel onwards. At the Poroaki we will be gifting a taonga pounamu to each Year 6 student. This symbolises the Mauri of all their experiences at Whetūkairangi and the mana and good wishes of the school community, embodied within to let them continue to Flourish.

The Wrap will be more of a celebration of the year, with highlights from across the school, lots of community singing and frivolity with less formality. Tuesday 17 December - 5.30pm to 7.00pm.

 This is us practising for the poroaki: