"Kia ora!" "Hello!"

The Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand, they are Polynesian and comprise about 14 percent of the country's population. The Maori language is considered a national taonga (treasure) and is spoken by around 23 percent of New Zealanders. In New Zealand, Maori language and traditions are woven into everyday life, offering visitors a fascinating journey of cultural discovery.

Kathy, my New Zealand exchange partner, is a principal at Boulcott School where a student Kapa Haka (Maori performing group) exists. On our first day of visiting her school, we were greeted by the Kapa Haka with a traditional Powhiri (welcoming ceremony). I hope to get a copy of the music to share with you because my words cannot describe the experience. The Kapa Haka is led by a father (a tribe elder) and his daughter. Together they share a beautiful story of revival of their culture and language that will be told in a future blog.

The Powhiri began with a Karanga (call) for us to enter the building. We were seated at the front of the room and the Kapa Haka from Kathy's school sang and danced for us. It was a beautiful and moving experience that I will never forget and it established a strong sense of connection for our visit to New Zealand.

Crissi and Janice with the student Kapa Haka

Maori Parent Leader, Crissi, Janice, Maori Elder and his Daughter - who lead the Kapa Haka