This year marked a significant milestone for the Logan Park High School kapa haka rōpū as they took the stage in the competitive category at Te Hautoka for the very first time.

After months of dedicated practice and immense effort, the group delivered a powerful and moving performance that left a lasting impression on everyone present.

Their commitment was evident in every waiata, haka, and movement—showcasing not just skill, but deep pride in te ao Māori and their shared journey. It was a moment of pride not just for the performers, but for the entire Logan Park community, with more than a few emotional whānau in the audience.

As well as being a celebration of culture and connection, the performance also contributed to valuable NCEA credits, with students earning recognition for their mahi in building and delivering their performance bracket.

He mihi nunui ki a koutou katoa—your strength, passion, and unity shone through.

Mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu.

This is the introduction read by the MC:

“Ko te Pāhure o Te Rangi Pokiha te maunga e whakaruruhau i a mātou. Ko Ōmimi te Awa e rere pātata nei ki te kura. Ko Ōtakou te wahapū. This is the first time that Te Kapua o Te Raki have competed at Te Hautonga. In 2023 we stood as a whakangāhau to experience the wairua of Te Hautonga. The members of our roopu have shown great resilience and positivity this year exploring the many facets of te ao haka and kapa haka. We are made up of year 9 – 13 students – ahakoa Māori mai, tāngata tiriti mai, he waka kotahi. Thank you to our kura for allowing our roopu the time to experience Te Hautonga 2025. Rere atu ngā mihi ki a Ms Kristan Mouat, ki a Nanny Maera White, ki a Dr Graham Prime, otirā ki a rātou mā kua wehe atu rā, moe mai rā. Our theme this year focuses on whakapapa, identity, and finding a place to stand in a diverse world showing solidarity and making connections with our environment. Living in the now, remembering those who have paved the path ahead of us for the years to come. To stand strong in identity and not be lost in technology. Ko au te taiao, ko te taiao ko au.”

https://youtu.be/qSUxtStXdQo (Our performance starts at 4:28:03)