Wellington College

Kapa haka plays an important role within the wider school, both as a cultural link for Māori students and as a doorway into the Māori world for other students. All students are eligible to join the kapa haka group. The group performs regularly at school events as well as participating in Māori events in the wider community. For major events the students from Wellington College combine with students from our sister school, Wellington Girls’ College. Practices are held each Monday after school at Wellington Girls’ College under the skilled instruction of Johnnie Waititi (Nga Puhi, Te Whanau-a-Apanui). Johnnie brings vast experience as a performer and tutor with adult and school groups, as well as sharing his enthusiasm and passion for kapa haka with the students. Other practices run at Wellington College, depending on upcoming performances.

 

Kapa haka performers are expected to be committed to the group and to practices. New members are always welcome. The students involved derive a huge amount of satisfaction and pride from their performances, and gain skills and confidence that prepare them to be full participants in a Māori world.

 

…Me he pipiwharauroa, takoto te pai! Takoto te pai!

 

Teacher in Charge: Mr Mark Bradley