Tumuaki/Principal’s Powhiri

Nau mai, haere mai, whakatau mai ki tō tātou Tumuaki hou a Matua Michael Hart.

On Friday 19 June 2020, Matua Michael Hart became the 11th Principal of Thames High School since it was established in 1880.

Botany Downs Secondary College Principal, Karen Brinsden, staff and students gifted their taonga, Matua Michael, to Thames High School at the Powhiri led by our mana-whenua of Ngati Maru and representatives from the surrounding district. A gift of 6 Kahikatea trees were received from Botany Downs Secondary College symbolising the Whānau system at their school.

Leaders from within the Thames Community were invited to share in this occasion with staff and students. A lovely meal was prepared by Whaea Judy Watene and others. Kapahaka rōpū from both Thames South School and Thames High School took part in the powhiri and provided entertainment throughout the afternoon.