Ngā Manu Torea is our teina rōpu. Within this rōpu we teach our tamariki that kapa haka is more than performance—it is a journey of identity, confidence, and connection.

We explore the beauty of Māori culture through waiata, haka, poi, and storytelling. As they learn, they grow in confidence, develop discipline, and build strong bonds through whanaungatanga (relationships) and manaakitanga (support and care for others).

Our goals this year are to learn pēpeha, karakia, and to understand what each waiata is about along with any history behind it. Whether they are fluent in te reo or just starting out, every child is supported and celebrated.

We will be learning different techniques that come with each item in our bracket, and how to execute them to a standard that has them ready should they move up to Tuakana level.

A typical day starts with an opening Karakia, followed by stretches and vocal warmups. Moving on to learning an item including the history behind it, who composed it and the meaning, so that each Tamaiti understands what they are singing about. Each waiata is broken down in sections and taught line by line. 

Throughout the day we endeavour to have a few games and group activities to encourage bonding, and also go over learning our pēpeha, and a sit down with our Tamariki to see how they felt about the day. We will end the day with a closing Karakia and making sure our space as we found it.