Week 1 of the school workshops began at Russell School on Thursday, 30th June.
Prior to these workshops, Russell School held a special place in my heart. My tupuna (ancestor) Moka Te Kaingamata was, with his two brothers Te Wharerahi and Rewa, one of the ariki/rangatira (chiefs) of this town in the 1830s-1845; during the time of the 18321 Letter to King William IV, Te Whakaputanga (Declaration of Independence), and Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi). I had also visited this school about 10 years ago, where I delivered a presentation based on Moka Te Kaingamata.
After contacting the Principal, Melissa Sunshine, prior to Term 2, I organised a date and waited to confirm depending on the Covid situation. Fortunately, the guidelines and situation were favourable and I visited Russell School on a beautiful sunny day, ready to share purakau with the students.
We'd like to acknowledge and thank the principal for allowing us to visit, Joanne Higgins for hosting us on the day, and the staff and students of Russell School for making me feel so welcome during my time there.