Kia ora Waterlea Whaanau
Welcome back to Term 4 and Niue Language Week.
The 2026 theme for Niue Language week is “Gahua ailoa ke fakaako fakamalolō e Vagahau Niue” – Working together to diligently teach and strengthen Vagahau Niue. Below are some phrases and words that you might like to practise at home.
Term 4 is always a bustling and exciting time, and this year is no exception. It’s a term of celebrations and farewells, particularly for our Year 6 students, and there are some important dates listed for whaanau to help with planning. As the weather heats up, please remember to ensure your child comes to school wearing the correct uniform including wearing a sunhat everyday to keep them safe in the sun. All classrooms have sunscreen and our kaiako will be encouraging tamariki to apply it before play times.
During the assembly on the last day of Term 3, we thanked James from the Amici trust and Tom from Pform who were instrumental in making the Moana Jr. Production such a success. We also recognised one of our Middle School tamariki with the MANA Values Korowai. At Waterlea School, the korowai is a significant award presented to a student who consistently and outstandingly demonstrates the school’s four core values. The korowai itself is a beautiful taonga made by former teacher Whaea Angelique, and it tells the story of the local area. Its presentation is a highlight of the regular MANA Values assemblies held by the school. Students are nominated by their teachers for showing these values across all aspects of school life. This term it was presented to Zane To. Here are some things that Zane’s kaiako had to say about him:
In this korowai, you will see hundreds of different strands woven tightly together. Every single strand represents a different characteristic that makes our students so special:
- The strands of Mannaakitatanga: Zane discreetly shows kindness and is inclusive in a polite way. He checks in with students with a simple question – so they feel seen.
- The strands of Aumangea: He has granite-like perseverance skills. As a hard worker who doesn’t give up on a complicated maths problem or a tough sports game. It takes a certain character to be a football goalie.
- The strands of Ngaakau Pono: Zane is a student who is honest, polite and respectful. Even when it feels scary, he stands up for what is right.
- The strands of Ako: Zane shows Ako instinctively as he loves to learn and work with others curiosity, while seeking knowledge creatively.
Just like this cloak needs soft strands, strong strands, and bright strands to be complete, our school needs different strengths to be complete.
A korowai is meant to be worn, and today we are proud to place it on the shoulders of
Zane To. He is a student who represents a very special mix of these strands. He is sensible, yet very funny.
But what we also love about Zane is that he is deeply curious and a remarkably keen learner. He doesn’t just wait for answers. He loves trying new things, asking big questions, and he truly thrives on discovering knowledge. When a challenge gets tricky, Zane just keeps going until he understands it.
When you wear it, you aren’t just wearing strands. You are wearing our Mana Values. The kindness, the bravery, and the pride of being a Waterlea student. Zane, wear it with pride today, and know we are proud of you.
Congratulations Zane on being a very worthy recipient of the MANA Values Korowai.
Ngaa mihi
Andrea Jamieson & the Waterlea Team
