Manuia le vaiaso o le gagana Samoa - Happy Samoan Language Week! 

We are celebrating New Zealand's third most spoken language this week. Many of our Pasifika students at Napier Girls' High School have Samoan connections.

The 2024 theme for Samoa Language Week is 'Tautua i le alofa, manuia le lumana'i' - 'Serve in love for a blessed future'. The concept of tautua focuses on the phrase – “Serve in love”. Love is the driving force of service. No matter what service looks like or who is doing it, service is accomplished through the power of love. 

This year’s theme aims to express the significance of service that is founded on love. Tautua can only be achieved through consistent development. Similarly, the maintenance of language is also achieved through service - through our values of love, respect, and especially in the vā fealoa’i (respectful relationships) that protect Samoan people. Service begins in the family and continues in schools, villages, churches, in our communities and countries. Service is a practice that is not exclusive to certain people or ages, but rather, a process that begins at childhood and continues into adulthood.

If you're new to this beautiful language, here are five phrases to get you started: 

🌺 Talofa lava - Hello

🌺 O a mai oe - How are you?

🌺 Fa'amolemole - Please

🌺 Fa'afetai - Thank you

🌺 Tofa soifua - Goodbye

Celebrating New Zealand Youth Week

New Zealand Youth Week, held annually in May, is a vibrant and inspiring event dedicated to recognising and celebrating the potential, passion, and contributions of young people across the country. This year's theme is 'Māwherangi a tama roto ka taka, kāpuia ake ka pūrangiaho' - 'We may not have it all together, but together we have it all'. This kōrero translates in both a literal and creative context. The first half of the sentence is more literal, referring to feeling internally confused whether that was mindfully or spiritually. The second half of the sentence is more of a creative context speaking on togetherness. "Kāpuia ake ka pūrangiaho" which ultimately means by binding together, we can help one another see clearly what matters the most - having it all together. 

Youth Week is a nationwide festival designed to celebrate young people and encourage their active participation in their communities. Organised by Ara Taiohi, the national peak body for youth development, the event includes a diverse array of activities, workshops, and events hosted by schools, community groups, and organisations throughout New Zealand. The aim is to create spaces where young people can express themselves, explore their interests, and connect with peers and mentors. Our Youth Council students spoke in Assembly about events planned. 

Youth Week is more than just a series of events; it is a movement that emphasises the value of young people in shaping a better future. By providing platforms for young people to express themselves and develop their skills, Youth Week helps to build confidence, foster leadership, and create a sense of belonging. Moreover, Youth Week promotes intergenerational dialogue and understanding. It encourages adults to listen to young people, recognise their potential, and support their aspirations. This collaborative approach helps bridge gaps and build stronger, more inclusive communities. 

New Zealand Youth Week is a celebration of the energy, creativity, and leadership of our young people. It is a reminder that by investing in our youth, we are investing in the future. Let's come together to celebrate and support our rangatahi, acknowledging their contributions and empowering them to become the leaders of tomorrow. 

Me te aroha nui ki a koutou katoa

Mrs Dawn Ackroyd

2024 Apollo NZ Open Swimming Championships

Note: majority of the competitors at the Opens champs are 19 years and over. 

Breeze van Veldhuizen entered 4 events and qualified for 3 finals. Placed 5th in the 400m individual medley. 

2024 Apollo NZ Age Group Swimming Championships

Breeze van Veldhuizen entered 6 events and qualified for 6 finals. She placed top 8 in all events with her best race the 200m backstroke where she placed 2nd.