High schools are ready to include Kapa Haka as part of the NCEA curriculum

More than 30 Maori high schools and kura kaupapa across the country will present a Maori performing arts course called Te Ao Haka (The World of Haka), available to the NCEA at all levels.

It was announced this week at Wellington’s Pipitea Marae, and a workshop for kaiako / participating teachers has now been held over a three day period.

“This is a significant step in our efforts to ensure that Maori knowledge, culture and learning approaches are valued, recognized and supported in accordance with the Government’s obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi.” Ellen MacGregor-Reid, undersecretary for Early Learning and Student Achievement, said in a statement.

Te Ao Haka builds on performance, knowledge of Maori culture, language and identity and will promote a variety of skills that can help students pursue studies or careers.

Eruera Keepa, a Maori arts performer and haka expert, says this government step can act as a vehicle to reconnect Maori students with their marae, culture and language.

“It is extremely important, many of our Maori students do not actually have access to Maori tea.”

Keepa says that Kapa Haka during their school years was an extracurricular activity to engage in only on the weekend or outside of school hours.

“If Kapa Haka at school was recognized and treated in the same way as other subjects during my time, I have no doubt that it could have been a solid base to pursue other career opportunities.”

He says Kapa Haka was treated as an incentive to help schools with their student retention rates, “which is quite an important indicator of a school’s success.”

“This government step ensures that our art form is treated and resourced in the same way as other subjects in school and thus improves the performance of Maori students.

“Celebrate our uniqueness and instill a strong sense of belonging.”

The news is a pleasure after the difficult decision was made to postpone the annual Kapa Haka Te Matatini festival, which has been moved from 2021 to 2022.

Kapa Haka has won the hearts of many and Te Matatini will take place in Auckland’s largest stadium, Eden Park.