Pompallier Shield Speech Competition

Pouroto had the honour of serving as the head judge, which creatively integrated Catholic and Māori elements in speeches by students from Catholic Secondary Schools across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. This event highlights the potential for closer ties with our Katorika schools.  Pouroto was well received and saw an excellent calibre of young speakers of delivery speeches in English, Te Reo Māori and Katorika Haahi. This was awesome sight to see amongst our schools. All Catholic Colleges were represented.

Congratulations to all the winners.

Carmel College students embrace Te Ao Māori at Te Kamaka Marae

On Tuesday 9 April our Year 11 students embarked on a cross-curricular trip to Te Kamaka Marae at Hāto Petera, immersing themselves in Māori spirituality, history and cultural practices.  This enriching experience encompassed Religious Education, Health and Te Reo Māori, providing a holistic understanding of Te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview).

Students were welcomed with a traditional Powhiri and were represented by Carmel College Te Reo Māori students.  This served as a powerful reminder of tikanga (protocols) and respect for the mana (prestige) of both the Marae and its people.

Throughout the visit, we gained valuable knowledge about Māori spirituality.  We learned about the interconnectedness of all things in the natural world and the importance of whanaungatanga (relationships) within the community.

The trip also delved into the rich history of Te Kamaka Marae and Hāto Petera itself.  Its place in the history of the Catholic Church in Aotearoa is both important and interesting.  Students gained insights into the significance of the Marae as a place of gathering, ceremony and cultural expression.  The context resonated with lessons learned in Health classes about cultural identity and wellbeing.

The visit provided a unique platform to practice Te Reo Māori in a real-world setting.  Students had the opportunity to interact with Te Kamaka Marae representatives and participate in cultural activities, all while strengthening their grasp of the language.  This practical application undoubtedly solidified classroom learning and offered a deeper connection to Te Ao Māori.

Learning about the Carmel College haka was another highlight of the trip.  The haka is a powerful performance that embodies strength, unity and pride.  By studying the haka, students gained a deeper understanding of Māori culture and traditions, enriching their knowledge base across all three participating subjects.

The visit to Te Kamaka Marae proved to be a valuable learning experience for Year 11 students.  By exploring Māori spirituality, history and cultural practices, they gained a broader perspective on Te Ao Māori and fostering mutual respect.

Walking the whenua at Hāto Petera

On Saturday a third hui-a-whānau was held at Hāto Petera in Northcote to update Hāto Petera whanau and local communities on feedback from the November hui. We took the opportunity to walk the whenua. The group photo taken below is on the location where the Interim Governance Group are proposing some type of conference or retreat centre. Thanks to those who attended. For slides from the hui or to find out more about the proposed repurposing go to: https://hatopetera.com/about-hato-petera/

Transformation Academy 2023 Report

Transformation Academy occupy the buildings at 88 College Road.  They believe in fun, in creativity but most importantly, they believe in transformation. Anyone, no matter where they’re from, their living conditions or how they grew up can change. Their mission is to trigger and facilitate the process and journey of Transformation.

Through education, they target transformation to success in the mindset, attitudes and habits of individuals.  They facilitate learning and embed the tools to lead a purposeful life bringing positive transformation to their own spheres.  Check out their 2023 Annual Report here.