Fifty St Gerard’s School students are “absolutely pumped” to be attending Murihiku Polyfest this week, according to teacher Ollie Yeoman.

The kapa haka group is made up of children in years three to eight and it is their first time attending the Southland festival of Pasifika culture.

Ollie said he is hoping the youngsters take away a sense of pride from the trip.

“[They will] experience of some of the best kapa haka groups in the region, an opportunity to perform at a big event with a big stage and a crowd, a team building experience, fun times and happy memories, pride in themselves, our group, our school, and Māori language and culture.”

The students will perform seven waiata (songs) and one haka. Many of the items focus on teamwork, mana (prestige), and wellbeing. 

The Central App attended a dress rehearsal for friends and whānau unable to attend Polyfest, held at the Dunstan High School hall on Monday August 21. 

Watch a short video of their practice performance here.

The set list is Haere mai, He rourou, E te Ariki, He honore, Tōia mai, Utaina, Kōpūwai haka (the St Gerards School haka) and Tau ana hukarere. 

Ollie thanked Polyfest organisers, the school board of trustees and parent-teacher Association (PTA), parents and the hard working and positive students for making the trip possible.

The students on stage with Ollie during the dress rehearsal. 

Along with their own performance (Friday August 25 at 10am) the kapa haka will attend the secondary school showcase evening at Stadium Southland on Thursday August 24 at 6pm.

Read more: Dunstan High School preparing for Murihiku Polyfest.

View the Murihiku Polyfest live stream here.

PHOTOS/VIDEO: The Central App