Autaia – A Haka-Theatre Extravaganza

Kia ora rā,

Autaia, a haka-theatre extravaganza, was performed to a sold out Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre. Our kura contributed 79 students to the production, with the invaluable support of 19 senior students who took charge of choreography, lighting, costume, makeup, stage design, props, sound, and music. Additionally, six of our tutors, recent graduates who led last year’s kaupapa played a pivotal role in bringing the vision to life. Special acknowledgments to Nisyola Fifita & Nela Tuihaangaa who helped tutor as well.

The performing students will receive NCEA performing arts credits, with moderators in attendance to assess their achievements. Many of the Year 12 and 13 backstage helpers were also working towards PAT standards through their involvement in Autaia, further enhancing their skill sets in the field of performing arts.

Through this kaupapa we hope to open pathways for Māori to be more involved in the behind the scene jobs/opportunities that the world of performing arts has to offer.

Here’s our synopsis:

“Turou hawaiki! Ko te kaupapa pū o tēnei pakiwaitara, he whakanui i te hononga i waenga i Ngā Puna o Waiōrea, ngā uri a Kiwa, me ngā whānau Pasifika whānui o to mātou kura. Ka hoki ki tērā wā o te pāhuatanga o ngā whare, ki ngā “Dawn Raids,” ki te wā i takahia kinotia ai ngā uri a Kiwa e te kāwanatanga. Tēnā areare mai ki tēnei whakatīnanatanga o te “mana motuhake,” e pūrua ai te moko o tuakiri, e tuia ai te hono o whakapapa, e tākiri ai te aho o manawa. Areare mai ki te pakiwaitara o te aroha mauroa o Kiwa rāua ko Salote.

This year’s Autaia production was a vibrant tribute to the deep connection between Ngā Puna o Waiōrea and our wider Pasifika whānau. Set in the lively backdrop of Seddon College in the 1970s, our story unfolded amidst the charged atmosphere in the era of the ‘dawn raids’. Experience the powerful narrative of two destined lovers navigating their relationship through turbulent times. Dive into our celebration of ‘mana motuhake’ – the pride in our identity, the richness of our heritage, and the transformative strength of our relationships. Join us for a mesmerising journey into love, resilience, and cultural pride. We called it ‘Kiwa and Salote’.”