Wainuiomata rangatahi brought creativity, flair and an impressive awareness of environmental issues to Matariki celebrations at Wainuiomata Marae earlier this year. They impressed their peers and whānau with their entries in the Tihei Rangatahi after-school programme’s wildly successful E Tū Whānau Wearable Arts Show.
Strutting their stuff in front of 700 whānau and friends, 35 students from local preschools, kōhanga reo, primary, intermediate and high schools modelled garments representing Atua Māori (guardians) that they’d made from recyclable, reusable and natural resources.
Schools were judged by the community on the overall execution of their garments. Winners shared in a prize package worth $1,500 which went towards school resources and supplies.
E Tū Whānau has supported the innovative Tihei Rangatahi after-school programme for several years and was rapt to find that the E Tū Whānau kaupapa has been incorporated into this annual Matariki event which is run by Kōkiri Marae Health and Social Services.
Tihei Rangatahi event manager, Ngapera Mei, says that the E Tū Whānau Wearable Arts Show aligned nicely with the school curriculum.
“As they worked on their pieces, rangatahi became more conscientious about rubbish and harmful pollutants that affect their environment. The pieces they created told this story.”
“Our Tihei Rangatahi team were ecstatic about the overall turnout and we would like to thank all schools, teachers, principals and students for their wonderful mahi and awesome ideas. You all truly captured the tino kaupapa of environmental awareness. We are so very proud of you all and the success of the show goes to you,” said Ngapera.
The three awards went to three different schools:
- Mata Ariki Award for Innovation – Wainuiomata Intermediate
- Puanga Award for Creativity – Arakura School
- Haumiatiketike Award for Sustainability- Pukeatua Primary School
