On the evening of October 20, we gathered for a special event, blending the solemnity of a Poroporoaki (farewell) with the celebratory spirit of the Annual Māori Awards.
This event was to acknowledge the effort, contribution, and leadership of the school’s Māori students throughout 2025, and to formally farewell our Year 13 leavers.
The Annual Māori Awards celebrated the collective effort and success across all year levels. Awards were presented for academic achievement, cultural contribution (especially within Kapa Haka), excellence in Te Reo Māori, and service to the community.
The Poroporoaki, focused on our outgoing Year 13 Māori students. This traditional ceremony provided a space to honour each student individually, with tributes acknowledging their commitment to our school and their Māori community. The atmosphere was a rich mixture of pride and emotion, recognising their growth from nervous Year 9s to confident young adults.
Each leaver was acknowledged with a brief tribute detailing their chosen path for 2026 and was sent off with a blessing for their journey (whai haere).
2025 Head Māori Tuakana, Aaliyah Mitchell and Carma Harris, were acknowledged for their exceptional leadership and dedication to their role. They are leaving Burnside High School with a legacy of inclusiveness and cultural pride.
Our congratulations go to Jaye Teale and Kei Milner who will take on the role as Head Māori Tuakana for 2026. Both students have demonstrated the dedication and vision required to lead the Māori student body, ensuring the traditions, values and energy of the community will continue to thrive in the new academic year.
Congratulations to the award recipients and best of luck to our Year 13 leavers as you look to follow your path beyond Burnside High School.
