Rawhiti Trip

Rawhiti trip

A cultural trip to Rawhiti in the Bay of Island was organised by Kata O Donnel. The purpose was to make Maori students proud of their heritage and ultimately get better academic results. This is whole  heartily supported by the school and funded by the school.

The trip was a huge success. We were surround with fantastic scenery away from any distractions. We disconnect in order to connect with nature and the past. Students change when they are out of the city environment and in nature.This group was great before they left but became awesome after one day.It was another world altogether and there was Aroha . Classroom management was totally unnecessary. The students got totally engage in discovering nature, their past and traditions and themselves. Everyone jumped in and completed tasks and chores when need be.Teamwork and community spirit and looking after each other was excellent at all times

There was many activities and lessons. The highlight was the walk in the Kauri forest and the Jet ski rides - connecting the forest and the sea.

Activities included traditional Maori net fishing, scuba diving, jet skiing, a forest walk and beach walk. The food was plentiful,fresh out of the sea. Trust activities were done on the Marae and in the forest as wellWe cooked cockles on a fire on the beach. There were a lot of lectures on the meaning of Maori customs and how to Maori culture back in your life. Hopefully this trip will enhance the student identity and make them proud of their heritage.

Strong roots will give you wings





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