Paraparaumu College has competed at the Wellington Secondary Schools Regional Kapa Haka Competition for the first time in 40 years.
The competition was held at the Wananga o Raukawa venue, Nga Purapura, Otaki.
"Although one of the smaller groups to perform, the students were elated to to be able to participate alongside their peers, and gained valuable feedback that they will take on board, for future performance opportunities," college extra curricular arts director Clare Thorley said.
"Matua Jack Brooking, who is our Te Reo Maori teacher and kapa haka tutor, worked with the group from the start of the year to realise this vision for the group.
"He was supported by staff, whanau, tutor Sarsha Forbes and a Year 11 student, Daihla Wiari, who spent many hours creating the costumes for the group.
"The roopu have gained more confidence in their abilities, were overwhelmed by the support that was shown by the community and their Kapiti College peers, and look forward to performing at a regional level in the future."
The competition was organised by Te Kahui Kaiako Reo Maori o Te-Whanganui-a-Tara.