Pōwhiri Welcomes Year 7 Ākonga - Tuesday 4th February 2025

On Tuesday, the 4th February, St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic College welcomed our new Year 7 ākonga and staff with a formal Pōwhiri, conducted in accordance with Tainui tikanga. Year 7 ākonga and new staff, gathered at the front of the school. The Kapa Haka group led the karanga, calling the manuhiri forward. Inside La Storta, Kaumātua Mangawhero addressed the school, followed by speeches, waiata, and a haka pōwhiri from our Kapa Haka students. Principal Dean Wearmouth extended a warm welcome, acknowledging our new ākonga and kaiako as an integral part of our community. His message reinforced their importance within St. Ignatius College and the whānau they are now part of. The Year 7 ākonga showed great respect for Māori tikanga and Ngāti Tamaoho, reflecting the values of our college. We sincerely thank Ngāti Tamaoho for their guidance, ensuring the Pōwhiri was conducted with cultural integrity. Fr. Eka concluded with a blessing before shared kai, allowing time for connection and reflection. Thank you to all involved, especially our Kapa Haka students and staff, for making this event a success. We also wish to extend our heartful gratitude to Mrs Christine Montagna, who generously donated the Cookie Time Cookies and Just Juice boxes for our ākonga to enjoy after the Pōwhiri.