Hika‑Riki: How Hikurangi School Celebrates Matariki

As part of our series on how our community celebrates Matariki, we turn to one of the biggest events for our Kura: Hika‑Riki, Hikurangi School’s annual celebration of kapa haka, music, Pacific Island dance, shared kai and community connection.

Each year the Kura opens its gates to the wider community, welcoming whānau, kaumātua, tamariki and visiting schools for a day that reflects the heart of Hikurangi. Principal Jodie Edwards says Hika‑Riki has grown into something truly special.

“Hika‑Riki is a time for us to celebrate, share and give our tamariki an opportunity to shine. That’s what our Hikurangi Kaupapa is all about.”

This year the Kura has two performance groups, with close to 60 tamariki taking part. They’ll be joined by ten schools and local early childhood centres, including Bloomfield School, who are excited to be part of the day.

Hika‑Riki has always been shaped around accessibility and inclusion, making sure every child and every whānau can take part and feel welcome.

Plenty of Kai

A big part of the day is the kai. There’ll be lots of food available, all priced so whānau can enjoy the day without worrying about cost. Jodie is clear that Hika‑Riki isn’t a fundraiser, it’s a school community celebration, and the focus is on making sure everyone feels welcome and included.

A Warm Welcome to Start the Day

The celebration begins with a pōwhiri at 9.30am, welcoming everyone onto the school grounds.

A dedicated gazebo will be set up for kuia and kaumātua, giving them a comfortable spot with a good view of the performances. To help keep things running smoothly, the school asks:

·         Kaumātua and kuia to use the small car park at the front of the kura

·         Whānau to park along the main road or in town and walk across the bridge

·         Leaving the closest spaces for our elders

These small acts of consideration help make the day mana‑enhancing and welcoming for all.

Check out the New Playground

Those attending will also get a chance to see the new junior school playground; a recent addition that’s already a favourite with the younger tamariki. We’ll share more about this exciting upgrade in a later article.

A Term of Preparation and Pride

Behind the scenes, the school has spent much of the term practising, planning and preparing.  It’s a fitting way to wrap up Term 2 — a moment to pause, reflect and celebrate and look ahead to the year to come.

“We look forward to seeing you all there.”