Newsletter Issue 19

Matariki hunga nui
Matariki, the gatherer of people

As Matariki approaches in the holidays we look to the meaning behind some of the stars and the meaning of Matariki. The Matariki star itself loves to gather people together and connect them with our environment. She encourages us to do the same, as often as possible. 

This week we have had sell-out nights at the fabulous school show "Bring it on" and the gathering of these people to watch and celebrate the mahi that culminated in producing it has created deepening connections within a community. It was lovely and warming to see ex-students return to watch and support this production and in one conversation I had with an ex-student who regaled their experience being in the school show and that experience built lifelong friendships. Along with this, a magical Matariki breakfast for staff and some students on Wednesday morning gave us all time to pause, connect and reflect on not only the last year but the term. With student lead activity there's been something for everyone from a basketball shooting House competition, flax weaving lessons, House tik tok competition and inter-department pou or flag making with our allocated stars represented in these. We will end the week with a lovely koha from Hebrew Kitchen, one of our lunch providers consisting of ice creams and ice blocks for all students and staff to tautoko us and the relationship we have started. 

When we turn our attention to the star known as Pōhutukawa we hold tight to our memories of treasured people who have passed on. She encourages us to take time to remember them, and to acknowledge their impact on our lives. With all of us having such busy lives it is important to take time to stop, pause and reflect on these people. The significant public holiday that is now in our Aotearoa calendar allows such time for everyone to do this in their own way. Hiwai-i-te-rangi is a wishing star, who helps us to recognise our hopes for the coming year. She encourages us to hold onto our goals and find opportunities to see them fulfilled. Therefore as we break for the holidays we need to set our sights on Term 3 and all the experiences and teachings that they may bring to add to our kete of learning and achieving our goals and aspirations. 

We are looking forward to welcoming back Principal Mark Shanahan from Sabbatical and hearing about his studies and learnings from schools abroad that will further enhance student achievement and learning.

I would like to thank staff, students and whānau for all the contributions, mahi and care taken to ensure a successful Term 2. May we all have a restful break, filled with Matariki celebrations, connect with friends and family and recharge ready to take on Term 3 with determination and manawanui.

Kua haehae ngā hihi o Matariki
The rays of Matariki are spread
 
This whakataukī is spoken when Matariki is seen bright in the night sky. The rays of the maratiki stars are thought to carry messages for the people. Matariki is a time to share stories, reflect on the past, and plan for the future.
 
 Ngā mihi
 
 Mrs Olivia Fugmann
 Acting Principal

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