In a significant move to strengthen ties with the local community and honour Raukawa and Māori heritage, Ōtaki College recently held a formal ceremony to rename several of its buildings. The initiative, spearheaded by Principal Andy Fraser, involved close collaboration with kaumātua and representatives from Ngā Hapū o Ōtaki.

The naming process began in 2023 when Mr Fraser sought guidance from respected kaumātua Rupene Waaka. After careful consideration, a set of names was chosen, reflecting significant waterways which all have a mauri (life force) which provides sustenance to the land and the people that inhabit it. 

On September 23, 2024, staff, students, and hapū representatives gathered for the official renaming ceremony. The event commenced with a school-wide karakia, followed by Matua Keremihana Heke providing context for the chosen names, many of which reference local streams and waterways.

Matua Ricki Baker, and Ratana Āpōtoro, had previously blessed the new building plaques. As each name was announced, kaikaranga from Ngā Hapū o Ōtaki offered acknowledgement which was followed by local hapū members, led by Ōtaki College kaumātua Rawiri Rikihana, who encircled the gathering, offering karakia to each of the names and the buildings associated with them.

The newly named buildings include:

• Te Puna Atawhai (RTLB classroom)

• Tararua (English and Social Sciences)

• Te Puna Aroha (Learning Support)

• Te Awahohonu (Performing Arts)

• Haruātai (Administration)

• Te Whare Hauora (Gymnasium and the Stephen Hillas Memorial Pool)

• Turanga-Rāhui (Science)

• Pahianui (Technology & Visual Arts)

• Te Whare Hui (Te Reo Māori & Wharekura)

• Mangapouri (Years 7 & 8 and IT)

This renaming initiative exemplifies Ōtaki College's commitment to fostering strong connections with Mana Whenua and integrating cultural heritage into the school environment. The ceremony was a moving experience for all attendees, marking another step in the college's journey towards greater cultural inclusivity.