In order for students to thrive in a learning environment, it is important for them to be confident and happy in their own identity (tuakiri). At Pakuranga Intermediate, one of the ways students are encouraged to express their identity is through cultural groups and performances. These also provide an opportunity to learn about and through other cultures.
Kapa Haka
The purpose of our Kapa Haka roopu is to support our Māori students to embrace their links to Te Ao Maori. Kapa Haka also allows them to tap into their Māori language and culture but importantly to identify who they are through the art of performing. For our students, it is the beginning of a journey to self-discovery and celebrating the time of coming together with family and friends.
Pasifika
Even though Pasifika are the islands of the Pacific, our group includes all students from different countries and ethnicities. We encourage all students to give it a go and have a taste of Pasifika culture through dance. Students are also encouraged to share dances that they have learnt with the rest of the group. The group has learnt dances from Samoa, Tonga, Cook Island, Fiji, Niue, Hawaii and Tokelau.
ACE
Our annual Arts and Cultural Evening is always a big hit with all classes contributing a cultural performance for the evening as well as showcasing our Pasifika and Kapa Haka roopu.
