The beginning of the year always starts with great anticipation as current students and tutors are eager to see and welcome new students. New students are to be commended as it may seem quite daunting for them to enter a new environment especially kapa haka. With the first practice came an abundance of numbers, 64 to be exact. Although the sight of huge numbers is inspiring one must not to get overly excited as kapa haka always has to compete with other extra-curricular activities especially sport. As much as we try to allow the group the freedom of being a part of both, sometimes and unfortunately sport is chosen above kapa haka. So again this year, this is what we had to contend with although we were still fortunate that the majority of the group did manage to work both activities.
The first priority for this year was the qualifying regional competition. In order to perform at the 2010 nationals, the group needed to qualify at this competition. W?nanga were organised and practices were held. This preparation wasn’t easy as we needed to contend with a huge intake of new members. It didn’t take long for them to realise and experience the intensity and commitment it takes to be a member of this group. The regionals were held at Tolaga Bay so the basis of the bracket spoke of Uawa and our connection to there. The draw was done and we were pulled out to perform last.
The day of the performance saw many ex-members travel to Tolaga to witness and support the present group. The support for the group was huge. These were the placings - non-aggregate items: best costume 1st; action song – originality 2nd. Aggregate items: entrance 1st; moteatea 1st; poi 1st; action song 1st. These results meant the group was placed first in the regional competition. It had been a long time coming as 2003 was the last time the group had won regionals. Many thanks for the support given during this preparation and thanks to the group for their dedication. It was great to see certain members step up into the roles of pure leadership and use their initiative to support the group in many means.
Not long after that competition was the annual Tamararo competition. Fortunately we were able to go into this competition for the pure sake of enjoyment, relaxation and without any added pressures. It was great!
Thank you all for the friendships made, support given, and the ups and downs which allow us to become stronger people. A big huge thank you to Boys’ High for their never-ending support.