Te Koroneihana

Friday, 12th September 2025 at 9:09am

Haerenga ki Tūrangawaewae Mārae (A Trip to Tūrangawaewae Mārae)

Last week, on Friday, 5 September, a group of tauira (students) of Te Reo Māori and Te Ahi Kā from our kura (school), accompanied by Whaea Tia and Whaea Leanne, travelled to Tūrangawaewae Marae to take part in the annual Koroneihana – a historic and deeply significant occasion.

The week began with the one-year memorial of the passing of Kīngi Tūheitia and concluded with the celebration of the first anniversary of the crowning of the Queen, Te Arikinui Kuīni Nga wai hono i te po.

During this momentous event, Te Arikinui delivered her inaugural speech as the new leader of the Kingitanga movement. Speaking with passion and vision, she emphasised the importance of tino rangatiratanga (self-determination), the sovereignty of te reo Māori, the preservation and protection of the environment, the health and well-being of our people, and the empowerment of whānau (family) and whakapapa (ancestry) to ensure the strength and independence of future generations. Her words inspired hope, unity, and a renewed sense of purpose for all those in attendance.

Our tauira found the experience both moving and enriching, appreciating the chance to be part of such a significant cultural and spiritual event. Adding to the special occasion, they were thrilled to see Whaea Leanne perform alongside her former kapa haka group, Te Waka Huia – a beautiful and unexpected highlight of the day. We are sincerely grateful to Whaea Tia and Whaea Leanne for supporting and guiding our students through this unforgettable experience.

Image sourced: Whakaata Māori https://www.maoriplus.co.nz