He reo whakamānawa ki ngā toa whakaihuwaka!
A huge congratulations to Te Puku o te Ika, representing Ngā Kura Kaupapa Māori o te Puku o te Ika, for your incredible and well-deserved victory at Te Kapa Haka Kura Tuarua o Aotearoa, Te Huinga Whetū. Your success is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and commitment that each of you has shown throughout this journey.
This prestigious achievement highlights not only your incredible talent but also the powerful way you have upheld and celebrated te reo Māori, tikanga, and Māori culture. Through every action, every performance, and every note, you have demonstrated the immense pride and passion of your kapa, ensuring that our language and traditions remain vibrant and visible. Kapa haka is much more than performance – it is a profound expression of our identity, our history, and our strength as Māori. Te Puku o te Ika has reminded us all of the power of kapa haka to elevate our voices and connect us deeply to our ancestors and our future generations.
Your journey to this victory has been one of incredible discipline, resilience, and unity. The mana you have shown on the stage, and the way you have carried yourselves throughout this competition, is truly inspiring. It speaks volumes about the collective strength of your kapa and the unwavering support of your teachers, whānau, and community.
This moment will forever be etched into the history of Ngā Kura Kaupapa Māori o te Puku o te Ika, and it reflects the tireless efforts you have all put into perfecting your art, embracing your culture, and sharing your unique voice with the nation. We are immensely proud of you and what you have achieved.
E rere ana ngā mihi ki a koutou mō tō koutou kaha, tō koutou manawanui, me tō koutou whāinga nui kia tū hei toa mō te iwi. This whakataukī, “Mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu”, reminds us that through nurturing and collective effort, we can soar to great heights – and indeed, you have flown high, representing your iwi and your kura with immense pride and mana.
Your success will be an enduring legacy, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in kapa haka, while also upholding our sacred traditions and values. Your victory stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when we come together with purpose, passion, and unity.
Kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui! Continue to soar, to lead, and to inspire, as we look forward to witnessing the continued greatness of Te Puku o te Ika in the years to come. You have done us all proud, and we celebrate this milestone alongside you with deep admiration and gratitude.
