The Arts and Culture Awards evening was yet another spectacular celebration of the incredible talent, creativity and dedication of our amazing students! A full house as always, yet another reflection of the opportunities offered here at our kura.
Our audience was serenaded by our orchestra, followed by breathtaking performances by our Tuvaluan group, Isla Whinnen-Jensen, Sahara Isles, Bella Frost and Maddison Meredith.
Congratulations to all our award recipients and nominees. Your artistry, leadership, and commitment strengthen the cultural life of our kura! A big 'well done' also to our Performing Arts Leaders for hosting our celebration; thanks for your contribution and hard work—Bella Bishop-Evans, Sulu Tema, Maddison Meredith, Annabel Aitken and Sahara Isles. Thank you also to our awesome hall crew for their hard work!.
Our main awards for the evening went to:
Fitzgibbon Entertainer of the Year: Chance Kanara
The Fitzgibbons Entertainer Trophy is presented to a student who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the performing arts through active involvement in school performances and cultural events. This year’s recipient has consistently shown passion, dedication, and enthusiasm through his involvement in Kapa Haka. He has been a valued member of the group, attending rehearsals regularly and performing with pride, confidence, and commitment. His performance with Kapa Haka at Polyfest was a wonderful example of his talent, dedication, and ability to be a positive role model for others. He has also consistently demonstrated respect towards his peers and staff, while already showing excellent leadership skills. His commitment to performing arts, cultural participation, and the Kapa Haka kaupapa makes him a very deserving recipient of this award.
Service to Arts Award: Sahara Isles
This award is presented to a student who has gone above and beyond in Arts or Culture—and in many cases, served selflessly across both. This student has dedicated endless hours to honing their craft while leading, guiding, and supporting those around them.
They truly exemplify the Waitākere Way: learning with passion, caring to uplift others, and showing profound respect for themselves, their peers, and our school. This year's well deserving recipient is Sahara Isles.
Te Taumata Toi — The Summit. This is the pinnacle of all our Arts & Culture Awards. As our most prestigious honor, it is awarded to a student who truly exemplifies the spirit of Te Taumata Toi.
This year’s recipient has not only dedicated countless hours to their craft, but has also guided, supported, and led their peers with true mana and humility. Performing at an Excellence level across multiple disciplines, such as Art, Media, Dance, Drama, and Creative Technology, as well as within cultural groups. This student is widely recognised by both staff and peers for their exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and outstanding commitment. They truly exemplify the Waitākere Way: learning with passion, caring to uplift others, and showing profound respect for themselves, their peers, and our school.
This year's runner up to the Te Taumata Toi goes to Bella Frost:
- Excellent Contribution to the School Show
- Outstanding contribution, leadership and service to Kapa Haka
- Outstanding contribution to Dance - leader of the Hip Hop crew 2026
- Outstanding contribution to Drama
- Joint member of the winning duo for 2026 Talent Quest
- Whetūrangitia Group Show - creating a beautiful siapo/tapa Art piece at Corbans Estate art centre.
Te Taumata Toi 2026 Award goes to: Maddison Meredith
- Outstanding contribution to Music
- Outstanding contribution to Drama
- Excellent Media studies students
- Excellent dance student
- Outstanding contribution and dedication to the school show
- An excellent member of the hall crew
- Outstanding contribution and member of Kapa Haka in the last few years
- Joint member of the winning duo for Talent Quest
- Whetūrangitia Group Show - creating a beautiful siapo/tapa Art piece at Corbans Estate art centre. This can be seen outside my office in back admin
- Stand up, Stand out Vocal finalist
- An excellent Performing Arts Leader
- Also founded the drama club and leads in this area.
Congratulations to all our award winners, you've made this night one to remember! Many thanks to parents/families, teachers and friends for your ongoing support!
42 Rathgar Rd