MĀORI CAMP

In 2013 the first wānanga hautū (leadership camp) at our college was held on the Te Ana-au - Piopiotahi ara pounamu (greenstone trail) — today this pathway is known as the Milford Track. Students from Year 10 Māori Studies in that year (Eleanor Biss, Mikayla Cresswell, Shania Fox, Moewai Marsh and Pandora Ryan), Year 13 mentor students (Hannah Kerr, Bella Moore and Ash Wallace) and the late and former Kavanagh College tumuaki, Mr Tracy O’Brien, were in attendance. Some of the photos from this inaugural camp are included in this article.

The now popular tramping track was once an important ara pounamu that provided access to procure tangiwai (bowenite) from Te Horo/Anita Bay, near the entrance of the sound. Sometimes found strewn across this tapu (sacred) beach, this transparent-green rock was more malleable than pounamu (nephrite) and was highly fashionable and desirable as koko-tangiwai (ear rings) worn by rangatira (chiefs). Tangiwai or takiwai was also a valuable trading commodity. In week three, students from the 2025 class, Year 12 and 13 mentor students continue this legacy of learning, personal growth and development.

Starting at Rakiātea/Whakahekerau (St Kilda/St Clair) and finishing at Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Main Divide of the Southern Alps), our wānanga hautū will follow the water that flows east, to its source — Tarahaka Whakatipu (Harris Saddle, Routeburn Track).

Along this four-day journey, our students will be learning about Māori history, whakapapa (genealogy) and pūrākau (stories) that have been placed on the land. Tāhuna (Glenorchy) will be our base as we explore ancient kā ara pounamu (greenstone trails) and live under the shadow of an iconic mauka — Pikrakatahi (Mt Earnslaw). Getting into te taiao (nature) is good for the mind, body and soul. We are fortunate here in Te Wai Pounamu (South Island) to have wonderful mountains, rivers, coastlines, islands and lakes to learn about and enjoy that are steeped in stories and legends, each holding a unique place in Māori history and culture. In the vibrant tapestry of Aotearoa New Zealand’s landscape, Māori place names are more than words — they are threads that weave together history, culture, and identity. 

Nō reira, ahakoa iti, he pounamu (Although small, it is precious). This whakataukī (proverb) is often used to highlight the value of small things, small contributions, or the significance of something that may seem insignificant but is ultimately precious. It's a reminder that even small acts can have a profound impact and should be valued. 

BY MATUA TIM LUCAS