Polyfest 2024 showcased a remarkable performance by Hibiscus Tuakana, the Orewa College and Whangaparaoa College combined Pasifika group.

As eloquently described by their tutor, Marina Vaha, ‘It was an amazing opportunity, experience and performance. My heart is still full of joy and happiness for our tamariki’.

The performance, titled "Na Raluve - The Princess," was a touching dedication to the late Joyous Talei Hennings, a former Orewa College student, crafted by her mother Leba.

Jess from Whangaparaoa College and Samson Hennings from OC led the group. You can view the group’s performance HERE (slider timeline 2.55.00-3.06.00).

I echo Marina's sentiments wholeheartedly. Our students truly made us proud. Additionally, our kapahaka students, who performed the haka tautoko for Hibiscus Tuakana and Whangaparaoa College's kapa haka group Te Haumihi, showcased their support in full.

Special thanks are due to Marina and her team for their unwavering support for our students, and a heartfelt acknowledgment goes to Leba Hennings for generously sharing her talent, her culture with us all.

The overall results for Hibiscus Tuakana were as follows:

Oceania Category - 2nd place

Theme and Interpretation - 2nd place

Overall performance - 2nd place