Te Rōpū Kapa Haka o Kimihia stood for the first time at Te Huinga Whetū Kapa Haka Kura Tuarua o Aotearoa competition held in Nelson in July.

Te Rōpu Kapa Haka o Kimihia is a competitive kapa haka which comprises 5 different kura; Christchurch Boys’ High School, Christchurch Girls’ High School, Te Aratai College, Haeata Community Campus, and Cashmere High School.

Having placed third at the Waitaha Regional Kapa Haka competition in 2023, it allowed this rōpu to be given their first opportunity to compete at Te Whakataetae Kapa Haka Kura Tuarua o Aotearoa 2024. The lead up to this event was intense, with the rōpū training for over 20 hours a week to bring them up to the level required by their tutors. It was an amazing experience, as all the kaihaka have developed bonds with each other. 

Having arrived on the Sunday, the rōpū were outstanding, continuing to bond and develop their skills. The week was full on with being part of the pōwhiri to welcome all 42 Kapa to the whakataetae, watching the performances for a day, practising and finally preparing for their stand. 

Te Rōpū Kapa Haka o Kimihia were stunning and for their first stand they were amazing! Months of practice and dedication being shown to the world!

Congratulations To Our Te Aratai Kaihaka: 

Raniera Babbington - Ngāti Porou/Ngāi Tahu

Alecia Kohu-Taukiri - Ngāti Ranginui/Ngāi Tahu/Tainui

Tarquin Tata - Ngāti Maniapoto

Rangitohiora Paringatai-Dallas - Ngāti Porou/Ngāi Tahu

Porourangi Manawatu - Ngāi Tahu

Ebony Burchett - Ngāti Whātua/Ngā Puhi