St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic College had the privilege of welcoming distinguished guests from the Jesuit and Companion Schools of Australia (JACSA), including Father Jose Mesa SJ, Secretary of Education for the Society of Jesus. The occasion was marked by a heartfelt Mihi Whakatau, led with grace and mana by our College Kapa Haka group.

As our visitors gathered at the entrance of La Storta, they were greeted with a resounding Haka, embodying the strength, pride, and unity of our College. This powerful display of whakawhanaungatanga set the tone for an authentic and deeply moving welcome. Our Kapa Haka girls then took centre stage, performing a beautiful Karanga, calling our guests forward and guiding them into our sacred space. This moment of connection not only acknowledged our visitors but also wove together our Māori and Ignatian traditions in a way that was both reverent and inspiring.

Once inside, the Mihi Whakatau continued with speeches of welcome, affirming the bonds of friendship and shared mission between our College and our brother and sister schools across the Tasman. The significance of this gathering was not lost on anyone present—this was a moment of unity, a time to reaffirm our collective commitment to Jesuit education and the values that underpin it.

Following the formalities, our guests and hosts came together to share in kai and conversation, embodying the spirit of hospitality that is central to both Te Ao Māori and our Ignatian way of proceeding.

We extend our gratitude to all those who played a role in making this Mihi Whakatau a memorable and meaningful event, especially our Kapa Haka rōpū, whose dedication and passion ensured that our visitors felt the full warmth of our welcome. In the words of St. Ignatius, “Go forth and set the world on fire”—may this gathering strengthen our ties and inspire us all in the shared mission of forming young people of conscience, competence, compassion, and commitment.