KEY POINTS:
Powai Ngatai Melbourne had never given a speech before until yesterday, let alone in Maori - but it helped that it was the only language she spoke until she was 9.
The 16-year-old was among orators from 18 schools at Hoani Waititi Marae in Glen Eden competing for the chance to attend the national finals of the Nga Manu Korero speech contest.
The Rangitoto College student delivered a 12-minute prepared speech followed by an impromptu address.
She entered at the last minute. "At first, I didn't really care about it. Then, two weeks before, I woke up and said, 'I'm going to do this'."
Powai admitted fumbling a couple of lines. But that didn't impede her enjoyment. "It was the bomb," said Powai, of Ngati Porou, who moved from Hicks Bay to Auckland this year.
Pei Te Hurinui Jones (senior Maori): Thomas Mason (Te Kura Maori o Nga Tapuwae). Overall female: Anania Tenana. Korimako (senior English) Tuta'l Vaevae (Te Whanau o Tupuranga). Te Rawhiti Ihaka (Junior Maori): Tuira Stowers (Te Kura Maori o Nga Tapuwae) 1. Sir Turi Carroll (junior English): Jacob Hiko (Kelston)
