We champion tikanga and Kaupapa Māori

Tēnā kōrua e Hemi rāua ko Kaedyn, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude for the incredible support you both have given throughout 2025. Your dedication, guidance, and unwavering commitment to my tauira have made an extraordinary impact. Because of your hard work and the time you poured into preparing and supporting us, my class were named the overall champions at the recent national event we competed in for Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. This achievement reflects not only the efforts of the tauira, but also the strength of the partnership and awhi you consistently provide. Thank you for believing in our students, for pushing them to reach their potential, and for being such outstanding role models. We are truly grateful to have the support of Mataatua Sports Trust, and especially the passion and expertise that both of you bring.

I am writing to express my appreciation for one of your exceptional employees, Hemi Wahapango. Hemi has been working with our school, Te Kura O Te Paroa, since the end of last year, and during this time, he has made a significant impact on our students. He has introduced our children to Ki O Rahi, coached a waka ama team, and actively participated in all school-wide sporting events. Most recently, his dedication and mentorship in coaching our waka ama team have been outstanding. I have received heartfelt feedback from parents expressing their gratitude for having someone of his calibre guiding their children.