Te Parata

A parata is the head or front of a canoe. When a canoe is launched the Parata is the first part of the canoe that touches the water as it breaks. The Maori believe that the parata has the power to control the tides by pulling in and letting out water as required. The taonga has a special meaning to the school and its students. The students learn by drawing in what the school teaches and share these skills and knowledge with others in the community.

The half circle on which the school monogram rests represents the rising sun. This together with the rays of the sun above it, symbolises the beginning of learning. The spirals or takarangi, meaning drifting clouds on each side of the monogram represent the struggle and effort, the pain and the joy of school life. Students are represented by carved figures facing out on both sides. They acquire knowledge at school in order to share it with others. The carved face at the top represents the Principal of the school who overlooks the running of the school. The spirals on both sides of the Principal are traditional designs on the front of a war canoe, and its Principal, the Captain who leads, guides, directs and controls its movements.