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Pukekohe Hill School held a special community celebration, Te Puea Day, on May 26.
Principal Simon Williams said the annual event marks the founding of the school in 1952. Te Puea Day was first held at Pukekohe Hill School seven years ago.
“It honours the legacy of Princess Te Puea Hērangi, a courageous leader who championed
manaaki tangata – care, and kindness for all people.”
He said Pukekohe Hill School was once Pukekohe Māori School, established to serve Māori
tamariki (children) in an era of segregation and challenge.
“Over time, the school has grown into a place where cultures come together and where the
values of aroha, whanaungatanga, and manaakitanga are actively lived. Te Puea Day is our way of recognising that past, while inspiring our tamariki to build a kinder future,” Williams said.
As part of the celebrations, ākonga (students) each made a “Cup of Kindness” — a decorated cup filled with handwritten thank-you notes and small donated items.
More than 500 cups were delivered to 24 different organisations, including emergency services, community groups, healthcare workers, teachers and support staff.
“These are the people who often serve quietly behind the scenes — and this initiative is about saying, thank you for all you do for us and our community.”
