News

On Sunday, 16 October a group of interested PIHMS students visited Puniho Pa, located in Warea (just past Okato, Taranaki) for a culture visit. Which will become part of the introduction to life at PIHMS and in Taranaki.

In our afternoon visit, students were introduced to Maori culture. After the formal Powhiri (Maori welcoming ceremony), we joined the workers for a quick Kai (food and drink) before breaking into workshops. The Wahine (Ladies) made Poi and Putiputi (weaved flax flower), the Tane learnt a little about the Taiaha and during this time, the students were introduced to Te Reo and talked with the Whanau about life and habits of the modern day Maori.

After the workshops we had a tour of the Marae including some interesting stories about the history, not only of Puniho Pa but also the Taranaki area.

Thanks to the Whanau of Puniho Pa, we all felt welcomed and the international students, as well as the kiwis, enjoyed their time and learnt something about our Maori Culture. We look forward to continuing the relationship with Puniho Pa.