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An special experience at Kāpiti Marae
E ngā mana, e ngā reo, e ngā hau e whā
Tihei mauri ora!
On Monday our tamariki at BestStart Raumati spent some time at Kāpiti Marae. It was perfect timing as Matua Paora’s Year 10 te reo class have been learning about pōwhiri, so our visit was a fantastic opportunity for them to practice the different roles that a pōwhiri entails. Our tamariki have learnt about pōwhiri with Matiu, so it was wonderful for them to be a part of a 'real life experience' such as this.
Before heading onto the Marae we gathered at the waharoa where we waited for the kaikaranga to call us on. As part of their learning experience we had rangatahi represent us as manuhiri, so our 3 kaikaranga made a return call. We followed the lead of our rangatahi and took a seat to the right, opposite the tangata whenua. Matua Paora stood and said the first whaikorero. This was followed by a waiata. Three speakers stood for the next whaikorero followed by another waiata. Then it was our turn.
Our rangatahi stood and gave their response, and we followed it up with the waiata Te Aroha led by Whaea Miriama. Then it was time to harirū, hongi and high-five. Shortly after, a karanga was called letting us know that we could head into the wharekai to share some kai and to our delight, be entertained with Kapa Haka.
Our tamariki were captivated by the beautiful waiata and wicked haka – tu meke! After kai Matua Paora took us (and some rangatahi) on a Marae tour where he shared with us his valuable knowledge about Kāpiti Marae. To help us remember the names of each building Matua Paora gave each one an action (similar to sign language). What an amazing time we had, and how lucky are we to have this connection within our community.