Matatoki School and its community enter the school year in a brand new way.
Students, teachers, staff and parents gathered together on February 13 to witness the unveiling of their new waharoa, or entranceway, which was brought to life by many hands, minds and hearts.
Invited to bless the waharoa was local kaumātua Mātua Waati, who supported schools in the area in teaching and learning about Te ao Māori.
The artwork on the waharoa was called “Ka mua, ka muri”, which means looking to the past to inform our future, and was created by local artist Rick Fisher, who also worked with school students to bring their ideas to life.
The back of the waharoa showcased artwork made by the school’s relief teacher, Whaea Gail Escombe, and junior students.
That’s not all the Matatoki community observed, festivities continued as the new admin block and sensory garden were also opened on the day, followed by a morning tea for students, staff and invited guests.
