Ngake and Whātaitai, the two taniwha that used to reside in Wellington Harbour (Whanganui a tara).

Surrounding this lake were mountains and hills.

Ngake longed to be free, to see and explore the great depths of Moana nui a kiwa (the Pacific Ocean).

This taniwha had a hunger for knowledge, which he applied with his determination and strength. He was able to obtain his goal and having done this however, the lake water level dropped so low that Whataitai became stuck while trying to leave. So Whataitai gave his body to Mother Earth (Papatuanuku).

This is where the area of our school gets its name and spirit. Whataitai gave his spirit to Ranginui (Father Sky). His spirit took the form of the bird Te Keo. He flew along the ridge to the top of Mount Victoria (Matairangi), also known as Tangi I te Keo (the weeping of Te Keo).

The two taniwha are shown on the Pou - Whataitai’s head is at the bottom and Ngake is at the top. The top knot signifies the great amount of knowledge this taniwha has obtained. It is the sign of a leader and an achiever.

Ngake is a symbol of strength, endurance and knowledge, and tells us that hard work will always see you achieve your goals.

The bird carved below Ngake’s head is one of Whataitai’s legs and gives reference to Te Keo - the spirit of Whataitai - ready to fly to the top of Matairangi (Mount Victoria)

Below the figures, a chiefly cloak wraps around the totem representing safety and protection - the drawing together of our school community.

The toggles are a part of our school community’s welcome.

The Pou, and its story, underpin the vision of the school.

Under Construction