This whakatauki/proverb was first written by Sir Apirana Ngata in 1949 in the autograph book of a schoolgirl Rangi Bennett. NZSTA received permission from Sir Apirana’s family to use this proverb.
The original proverb refers to new growth, and in our context, new growth refers to children. This is how we developed our vision ‘in our children lies our future’.
Our logo
Our logo is based on an important New Zealand native plant, the harakeke/flax.
The harakeke plant represents the whanau/family in Maori thoughts. The rito/shoot is the child. It is protectively surrounded by the awhini rito/parent. The outside leaves represent the tupuna/grandparents and ancestors.
Our waiata
Composed by Maata Wharehoka - NZSTA Board, February 2014
He tipu he rea Nga tikanga Kia u kia arahi Nga kura katoa O Aotearoa |
It is a tender shoot that grows For so many reasons Be steadfast, be leaders In every school in Aotearoa
|
Kia kaha Kia maia Aki aki tonu atu Hei oranga te tipuranga Mo nga kura katoa O Aotearoa |
Be strong Be mindful Urge and encourage this forever Wellness of future generations In every school in Aotearoa
|
Manaakitia nga kura katoa Manaakitia nga kura katoa Manaakitia nga kura katoa O Aotearoa |
Support every school Respect every school Take care of every school In Aotearoa |
Timata ano mai i te tope | Repeat from the beginning |
Download the waiata as a PDF here.