Waka Groups

Every student is put into a waka group when they enrol. This is your waka and you will work with other students in that waka to gain points throughout the year. The winning waka is announced at prize-giving. 

Waka Ama (Green)

Waka Ama is the outrigger canoe (left hand side).

This house is represented by a native New Zealand bird, the Karearea

Waka Ama represents Tawhirimatea- the guardian of storms, with the element of wind. 

Whakataukī: 'Whāia te mātauranga hei oranga mō koutou'  

Translation: Seek after learning for the sake of your wellbeing.

Waka Katea (Blue)

Waka Katea is the brace in a canoe (right hand side).

This house is represented by a native New Zealand dolphin, the Maui dolphin

Waka Katea represents Tangaroa- the guardian of sea, with the element of water. 

Whakataukī: 'He waka eke noa'  

Translation: A canoe which we are all in with no exception.

Tau Ihu (Yellow)

Tau Ihu is the figurehead or prow piece of a canoe.

This house is represented by a native New Zealand reptile, the Tuatara

Tau Ihu represents Rongo Maraeroa- the guardian of peace, with the element of earth. 

Whakataukī: 'Ki te kahore he whakakitenga ka ngaro te iwi'  

Translation:  Without foresight or vision the people will be lost.

Tau Rapa (Red)

Tau Rapa is the stern or rear piece of a canoe.

This house is represented by a native New Zealand bat, the Pekapeka

Tau Rapa represents Tumatauenga - the guardian of war, with the element of fire. 

Whakataukī: 'He hono tangata e kore e motu; ka pa he taura waka e motu'  

Translation: Unlike a canoe rope, a human bond cannot be severed.