Wainuiomata Should be Proud.

(From Left) Taikaha Olsen, Patrick Tuhaka, Nohokainga Pulekautaha Lai and Seth Forbes

Wainuiomata has a reason to be proud today. Four Wainuiomata High School students took out top spots at this year’s Nga Manu Korero Regional’s, held at Naenae College. For the first time Wainuiomata will be represented on the National stage. A tremendous achievement for two of the four students.
These students stormed the regional competition and left the audience in awe of their collective talents.


Seth Forbes came a close second in the Junior English section, with his informative speech entitled 'Water is a treasure'. Well researched and spoken Seth held the audience’s attention. Senior student Patrick Tuhaka spoke on the topic 'Lest we forget' he placed second in the senior Maori section. Patrick commanded the stage, with the use of his voice and stage manner.

However it was Taikaha Olsen and Nohokainga Pulekautaha-Lai who both placed first in their sections. Taikaha Olsen came 1st in the Junior Maori section. Taikaha had a strong opening and left the audience in wonder. Senior student Nohokainga Pulekautaha-Lai placed first in the Senior English section. Nohokainga moved the audience as she spoke passionately on the topic 'Lest we forget'. Nohokainga and Taikaha will now represent Te Awakairangi/Waiarapa at the National Nga Manu Korero 2009 held in Rotorua in September later this year.

Both students are said to be preparing themselves for the competition. Which is said to be a step up from the regional competition. Although they are nervous, they are incredibly proud to have the opportunity to represent their school and families.