TERM FOUR - Week 4

Marae trip

This week, all of Rowandale school had the experience of visiting our local Manurewa Marae.  For most of us, it was a new and exciting experience.  

The day began with the traditional Powhiri, in which we had some of our senior students and staff involved in.  As common respect we had to take our shoes off, and behave in a civilised and quiet manner.  The kaumatua spoke of the significance of the Manurewa marae and we listened with anticipation.

We were excited to begin our modules and as soon as the formalities were done, we were eager beavers waiting to start our learning journey in the maori culture

We began our day with the long stick rakau which was taken by Mr Ikitule.  Wow, who knew you could do so much with a long stick, apart from hitting someone with it or breaking it?

Next we split and the boys went to the haka section and the girls went into the poi section.  These are two traditional maori dances that is commonly performed at special occasions or competitions.

We then went into the marae to explore the carvings, history and pictures inside.  An interesting historical fact that we found out was that the Manukau harbour is called Te manukanuka te oturoa.  Two carvings that we identified in the marae belonged to females, and their names were Te Atairehia and Hinenuitepo.

Finally, the tummy was rumbling and we had some kai, our lunch.  It was steaming hot, yet we still played out in the hot sun, with our hats and sunscreen on.  A little after 1pm was our final module which was the harakeke taken by Mrs Kasi-Sagote and Whaea Rebecca.  

We were also lucky enough to have our taamoko done, which we thoroughly enjoyed.

We, Room 18, have just had an experience of a life-time in which we respected and participated in the maori culture.  We would like to continue these activities and help keep the culture alive at school.  

A huge thank you to all the teachers who organised this great experience.  We look forward to more learning in the future.