Celebration for new Glenholme carving

WELCOME: A new carving at the entrance of Glenholme School was recently unveiled in a ceremony involving students, staff and the school board. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

A special ceremony was held at Glenholme School recently to unveil the new carving, which stands at its entrance.

Handcrafted by the Te Puia Carving School, the carving of a waka represented the journey in education of the students and the nurturing and guidance provided by the staff, board and whanau.

Staff said an unveiling ceremony was held with the carving being blessed.

"Children from youngest to eldest took part in a karakia [prayer], waiata [song], whakatauki [proverb] and a haka," they said.

"The kaitiaki [guardian] on the prow of the waka will guard over the tamariki [children] and welcome manuhiri [visitors]."

The carving pattern represented the three baskets of knowledge, which is taught in Maori mythology.

A highlight of the occasion was the chocolate cake which everyone enjoyed afterwards.