Orewa College launches its new school haka, Haka Tautoko Taiohi Orewarewa, during Te Wiki o te Reo Māori celebrations.

Ākonga, kaiako and whānau gather to celebrate te reo Māori with the debut of Haka Tautoko Taiohi Orewarewa

Orewa College marked the 50th anniversary of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori with the unveiling of its new school haka, Haka Tautoko Taiohi Orewarewa. The celebration, held on the Year 7 and 8 courts, brought together ākonga, kaiako and whānau in a powerful display of unity and pride in te reo Māori.

Led by the kura’s kapa haka rōpū, the performance was one of the first public showings of the haka, and the atmosphere was electric. Months of preparation went into the moment, staff and students have been learning the new school haka over term 3, many early morning additional trainings and staff giving up lunch time to practice.

Deputy Principal Richard Wells said the effort paid off. “What a good turnout! Sounds awesome. Long time in the making.”

The celebration also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting te reo Māori in everyday life at the kura.

See below for a full video of the performance.

Video credit: Ralph Zamora