A cultural festival held at Homai Primary this week, was a celebration of all the indigenous cultures at the school, and a coming together in preparation for the school's 60th anniversary in 2015.
The sound of the conch signalled the start of the welcome as guests descended on Homai Primary, and at the forefront of the challenge were the students.
Board member at Homai Primary, Timi Tairi says, “A variety of cultural groups will be performing including the islands, there'll be food stalls, and we'll also be unveiling our new carvings, Huatau, Tamapahore and Tamapahure.”
Parents and friends have marvelled at the students' achievements this year, impressed with how the school has embraced the different cultures.
Mr Tairi says, “We envisaged working as one to achieve our dreams of promoting all cultures, including Māori, Pasifika, and Pākehā cultures, and teaching our students that through education today, they will succeed in the future.”
The school has no doubt had good and bad times over the years, but by coming together and working toward a common goal, next year's 60th celebrations look set to be a huge success.
“Despite the ups and downs of the past, the aim is to unite the staff, students and the community, and the focus is on the future.”