National champions of the Secondary Schools Kapa Haka Competition, Raukura today shared their win with the whole of Te Arawa at a mass welcoming held at Te Papaiouru, Ōhinemutu to formally acknowledge their achievement.
For members of the Raukura kapa haka group, the work has paid off.
Group member Tipene James says, “No words can describe it, it's really exciting, the love I have for the group no words can express it.”
Raukura is made up of students from Rotorua Boys' and Girls' High Schools. The team was established as Raukura in 1994. They have never won a championship until now.
Rangitihi Pene from Te Arawa says, “I remember the past tutors of Raukura, Taini (Morrison) Joe and Polly Hakaraia they carried the group for a long time and it is wonderful to see the fruition of their work.”
Raukura was first equal in Te Mita o Te Reo, Whakaeke, Mōteatea, Poi, Waiata-ā-ringa and Whakawātea sections.
Rotorua Boys High Principle Chris Grinter says, “This is our point of difference we hear and see all around the world how, for New Zealanders even if they don't really acknowledge things Māori so much in their personal life's in NZ when they are overseas suddenly it becomes really important.”
Raukura will hold the trophies until 2018 when the next National Secondary Schools Kapa Haka Competition to be hosted by the Rangitāne region.