Mihi Whakatau
By Terry Tarapi | Posted: Sunday February 19, 2017
The Year 8 Students welcome New Staff and Year 7 Students into Balmacewen with a stirring Mihi Whakatau.
It was a hall full of nervous anticipation as the Year 8 students stood silently. Distantly the Karanga wailed signifying the beginning of the Mihi Whakatau. As the Manuhiri hesitantly entered the hall a volcano erupted, the noise deafening as the haka, Toia Mai, thundered out. Once seated the Tangatawhenua speakers delivered their whaikorero. Supported by all the Year 8 Whanau their angelic voices enhanced the speeches. To conclude this marvelous occasion the hongi and sharing of kai, in buddy classes, with the sun warming us all was a fitting end. Waiata spontaneous filled the air as classes responded to this significant moment in 2017.