Kia ora tatou ngā whānau,
We are thrilled to share with you the wonderful Matariki Hangi hosted by our Māori Whānau and celebrated at lunchtime on Friday. Whānau gathered on Thursday evening and worked tirelessly to prepare delicious kai, dig the hangi pit, and set up the fire to heat the hangi irons. The dedication and teamwork were truly heartwarming.
Rising at 4:00 am, the fire was lit by 5:00 am, and by 7:00 am, the red-hot irons were placed in the pit, alongside the carefully packaged kai in baskets. Covered with wet cloth and sealed with soil, the pit worked its magic, and at 12:24 pm, we had the pleasure of serving the steaming hot cooked kai to our students, staff, and community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our Māori whānau for their Manaakitanga and Whanautanga, shared generously with us all.
The term is off to a fantastic start, learners have settled into school life with renewed energy, and positive attitudes. We want to express our gratitude to all parents and caregivers for ensuring that your students are well presented in their uniforms, prepared for learning, and arrive for the school day before 8:35 am.
Our parent information evening was a resounding success. We had a full house on Wednesday evening and had the opportunity to showcase the exciting educational opportunities available at Garin College to our wider community. Special appreciation goes to our student leaders and staff for their outstanding support and passion throughout the evening.
Next, we are eagerly looking forward to our year 8 Open Day this Wednesday, 26 July. If you know anyone considering Catholic, co-ed secondary education for their children, encourage them to reach out to our school office for a prospectus and enrolment pack.
Please keep an eye on our events calendar throughout the term. We have an array of celebrations ahead, including Garin Day, Mass of the Assumption on 15 August, Vast Dance, Garin College Ball, winter sports tournament week, sports awards, and Year 12 Journey. Your presence and support at these events would be cherished.
At Garin, we witness our learners’ pride in their success and achievements repeatedly. Active participation in the life and wairua of Garin fosters their physical, social, mental/emotional, and spiritual well-being. We cannot emphasise enough the importance of regular attendance in achieving this. Our college target is a 90% attendance rate for learners, and with your ongoing support, we believe this goal is entirely attainable.
We are excited for the events and learning opportunities that lie ahead this term. Let’s continue to create a positive and vibrant community together.
God Bless
Ngā manaakitanga
John Maguire
Take a Moment
Matariki Blessing
The new light of Matariki has risen!
May it be to you a sign of resurrection and new life.
May it be to you a sign of hope in times of darkness.
May it be to you a sign of the wondrous mystery of Atua who loves you.
May it be to you a sign that the eyes of the Eternal One are ever upon you and that the presence of the Holy One is ever with you.
And may this be the cause of your rejoicing. Go in peace.
Through Christ and in the perfect unity of the Holy Spirit, we pray.
Amen