The powhiri in action....

 Today I attended my first powhiri at a state (albeit Grammar school) in the 21st century in welcoming new Year 9 students, new teachers and parents to the school. I was impressed at the dedication given to this Maori welcoming ceremony and even more interested when three European males gave their mihi and korere in Maori.


It started with a karanga (a student welcoming call and another replying) with the parents and new teachers women at the front, followed by the adult males and then the school students. We were welcomed in with a Haka powhiri by the Year 13 students and then speeches began followed by waiata (songs of support).


At the end of the formalities, the hongi (pressing of noses) or handshake/cheek press/short kiss with only the kai (food) to complete the powhiri process. I walked along with the women staff until I realized that no one else was following  (I think they were a bit daunted) but after I sat back down the Deputy Principal (whom I know) ushered me up and was the last in the line to catch up with the others. Yahoo!


As an education contractor for some 10 years, in schools, I would often witness how Maori teachers, were brought to the fore and would speak on behalf of European principals, school leaders and parents in keeping to Maori protocol in having Maori spoken as the primary language of communication or powhiri were relegated to only when special guests arrived.


Today, I witnessed a very different event in the school's powhiri to the Year 9s and new teachers. It was most encouraging to observe the Principal's korero and opening/welcoming remarks in Maori and in sharing his mihi/whakapapa (his places of origin), followed by the European Board of Trustees' Chairperson lengthy korero which was well spoken (even if he did refer to his notes at times). The reply was spoken by a new European teacher whose family had spent much time in Hong Kong. For me, in being immersed in a Wananga i.e. higher place of learning. I've learnt about the importance of observing the powhiri with it's symbolism and this was an encouraging to note.


They still had the benefit and support of the Maori educator in checking on protocols and discussing order and finer points but it was very interesting for me to note that within the schools culture they have embraced the important notion that culture has a place within schools and is the very essence of who people are and what they come with, that with an acceptance and encouragement of this brings about shared understandings towards achievement.


I suspect that this is why having a powhiri for the international visitors who are coming for the unprecedented signing of the controversial TPP (Trans Pacific Partnership) trade agreement between 12 nations was so important in showcasing a unique indigenous welcoming ritual.


However, even more controversial in that for many Iwi (Maori tribal groupings) the TPP trade agreement is not welcome as it is seen as not being conducive to indigenous peoples and those who are not in positions of power but more for multi national companies and those already who are already doing well financially but that's another blog...