Students, whānau and the wider community gathered before dawn to celebrate Matariki and the 30th anniversary of Te Haerenga, which was officially opened in 1996.
E toru tekau tau e tū ana a Te Haerenga, he whare whakakotahi i te tangata, he puna e rere tonu ai te mātauranga, te manaakitanga me te aroha.
For thirty years Te Haerenga has stood, a pillar that unites people, a spring from which knowledge, care and compassion continue to flow.
Our school community gathered before sunrise for a special Matariki Hautapu ceremony, celebrating both the Māori New Year and the 30th anniversary of Te Haerenga, our wharenui, which was officially opened in 1996. The morning also marked the unveiling of new anniversary signage, the official naming of our wharekai, Te Nohonga and a beautiful Hautapu ceremony to acknowledge the stars of Matariki. The celebration brought together students, staff, whānau and members of the wider community to reflect on the past, celebrate the present and look to the future with hope. It was a fitting way to honour a place that has been at the heart of Onehunga High School for three decades.
Our ākonga were outstanding throughout the morning. They led the ceremony with confidence, dignity and mana, delivering the karanga, karakia, acknowledgements to each of the Matariki stars and haka with pride. Their leadership reflected the values of Te Haerenga and showcased the strength of our young people. We extend our sincere thanks to Te Puea Marae for your guidance, generosity and continued support. Your relationship with Onehunga High School has been an important part of Te Haerenga's journey from its earliest planning through to today and we were honoured to celebrate this milestone alongside you.
We also acknowledge Dr Kay Hawk, who first proposed the idea of establishing a school marae in 1987. Working alongside Māori parents, kaumātua and the wider community, she helped turn that vision into reality. We also thank former Principal Chris Saunders, whose leadership and commitment were instrumental in bringing Te Haerenga to life. Together, they created a legacy that continues to enrich the lives of generations of students, staff and whānau. In her address, Principal Shameen Hayat acknowledged former Principal Chris Saunders, who attended the ceremony and the many people whose vision brought Te Haerenga to life. She acknowledged the enduring legacy they created, thanked everyone who helped bring that vision to life, and affirmed her commitment to continuing their legacy for future generations.
Kia toitū a Te Haerenga, kia toitū te mātauranga, kia toitū te manaakitanga mō ngā whakatipuranga e heke mai nei.
