A Mihi Whakatau is a traditional Maori ritual whereby the host people (tangata whenua) welcome visitors (manuhiri) to our "marae" - school. The process starts with a "karanga". Visitors are then led onto the "marae" (into the hall), where they will be welcomed by a haka. A short speech will be made by school staff. As a result of this encounter, the manuhiri are recognised as "friend" not "foe" and cease being manuhiri, but now count among the tangata whenua.
A "waiata" is sung and finally kai (food) is shared to complete the process. Traditionally this would be a hākari (feast), but at school we tend to share cake and biscuits.
RSVP is not required.
Just a reminder to all new families attending the Mihi Whakatau to meet in the reception area by the office just before 2.30pm, where we will guide you through the ceremony, which takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
We hope to see everyone there!
