Ngaruawahia High School Yearbooks 2010-2012 Kapa Haka Tour of Western USA 1998 | Page 18

Page 16 - Ngaruawahia High School Kapa Haka USA Tour 1998

I remember very clearly when Robyn Roa first
mentioned the idea of the trip, thinking "No way! That's
just not possible! It's just too massive an undertaking ! "
However, Robyn had a look in her eye that I have learnt
to respect and she said simply, "I know we can do it !"
And of course they did do it. The Ngaruawahia High
School Kapa Haka group traveled to the United States.
What an achievement.
Whenever there is a major achievement in a school, you
can guarantee that there is a group of very hardworking
and committed teachers at the back of it and thi s trip
was no exception. The fundraising effort was mind
blowing. Weekend after weekend saw Robyn and Poppy
organising yet another fundraising event. They were
assisted by the other teachers and many parents and, of
course, the students themselves. The combined forces
succeeded in achieving the goal. All those people
deserve congratulations.
The video of the trip showed that the students
performed brilliantly wherever they went, and they were
obviously received very well. Mind you, that is no
surprise considering the training that went into the
performance. Pare Paki is a hard taskmistress and her
hard work paid off. Credit must also go to the students
who were prepared to put in the hard work. The
amazing photo at the Grand Canyon showed the
students in their full glory.
For the students this was the opportunity of a lifetime a memory to treasure forever.
And that is why the teachers and parents worked so
hard. They knew the long term value of such an
experience. The students have a lot to be grateful for.
However, I know that everyone concerned knew that the
students were worth it and deserved the experience.
We all look forward to the next big excursion !!!!!
Barbara Cavanagh
Principal