Final message for 2018

It’s been an absolute pleasure to lead the Kapa Haka group this year. 

Thank you to all of our families who have committed to bringing your tamariki along early each Wednesday so that they can learn kapa haka, even though at times I imagine it can be difficult.  

This year has taught me that those who stay connected do incredible things and I hope you saw this too.

Thank you also to the parents, caregivers and teachers who provide ideas, opportunities, expertise, sponsorship and support.  Parents who cleaned and folded uniforms, learned to stamp moko on the kids, and those who jumped in to learn the waiata along with their children.  

You have been integral to the continuation of kapa haka and I look forward to everyone's involvement next year.

In our final practice yesterday, we reflected on the learners that are leaving and how much we value what they have provided to our group. All of our leavers are special to us, with a particular mention to our departing leaders Carmen Adie and Michael Henoa.

Our wish is that they go on to do incredible things - and of course we'd love to see them back to join us in leading our next generation through.

What's next for 2019

2019 offers some wonderful opportunities for our Kapa Haka group. We have asked Jade Wilson and Cooper Fox to join Dhevan Fodie and Mina Dijkstra as kapa haka leaders and look forward to them taking a more active role in supporting our younger learners.

We will also look to bring two new tutors on board next year to provide dedicated expertise and strategic direction for kapa haka at Stonefields. Of course, Jipsy and I will remain and will return to our roles as support tutors, ensuring a smooth transition.

We have spent a significant amount of time walking through the needs of the group and the expertise we are after to have landed on a combination of tutors that I think will add value to our group. 

Keep an eye on the Kapa Haka blog as we will be starting to add content in there over the break. 

You can now subscribe to receive email updates of new blog posts - this will be a good idea for families who want to keep up to date with kapa haka over the holidays.  

Remember there is a waiata page too, with videos and audio for your tamariki to practice if they wish.

Have an awesome break over the holidays, Meri Kirihimete and see you all back for 2019.

Ngā mihi nui

Mātua Bryan