Amid the winter weather, Ngā Taiohi o Panuku students reflect on their cultural exchange to Niue at the end of term two. Upon arriving in Niue, Ngā Taiohi o Panuku were shown manaakitanga like no other by the village of Tuapa led by Whaea Raechel Kaulima and Reverend Baz Viviani.
The trip was action-packed! One of the standout experiences took place at Niue Primary School, where they were warmly welcomed by eager students with beaming smiles and given the ultimate cultural exchange through song, dance, and traditional games, creating many special moments with our students.
The village of Tuapa opened their lives, providing kai and sharing kōrero about life on “The Rock” and the connections between Māori and Niuean culture. Many meaningful bonds were formed with both the elders and youth of Tuapa. It was heartening to see HHS students demonstrating our values and leaving lasting, positive impressions.
The journey to Niue, led by Whaea Rere, was a cultural experience of a lifetime and it has been wonderful to see Ngā Taiohi o Panuku students share what they learned with their peers and incorporate those lessons into their school life.
