Kelsey Waitere as Master of Ceremonies opened the evening followed by Bridget Bell speaking on behalf of the school community to farewell Brooke Cameron (Ngati Maniapoto) as an Academic Maori achiever. Eirylie Hayes shared with us her knowledge of Jahleia Mane’s (Ngapuhi) achievements and Jean Brady spoke well to farewell Keely Hawe(Te Ati Awa, Nga Ruahine). It was a privilege to host these girls at our final whanau hui for the year.

We then moved on to farewell our Cultural Leaders; Sun Pornkeratiwat (Thailand), Penny Lynne Siebert (South Africa), Christine Lee (Korean), Miaana Walden (Taranaki, Te Ati Awa) and Grace To(Hong Kong). The Senior Leaders of Nga Kohine, Kapahaka and Southern Seas were also acknowledged ;Holly Otene (Taranaki), Eirylie Hayes (Te Pakakohi, Ngati Haua), Chikaina Makatea (Te Ati Awa), Wina Fuimaono (Te Moananui a kiwa), Kelsey Waitere (Te Ati Awa).

Each girl received a gift from the school and those students in the Maori Achievers Book received a copy of this year’s edition.

Our guest speaker for the evening Colleen Tuuta TSB Trust Chairperson, spoke about the tuakana teina relationship demonstrated with the speeches and how important both ako and akona are.

Southern Seas entertained us during our kai and then the Year 13 leavers spoke about their highlight of their years at NPGHS and their plans for next year. Grace To and Kelsey Waitere shared powerpoints and during the open forum Karmel Waiariki shared her journey after NPGHS. It was an emotional event that was enjoyed by all and the inclusive environment was acknowledged by many.