This year's Pou is all about our journey throughout our time at Mahora but especially the last two years. This Pou is all about how our tamariki continued to ‘Piki Haere’ despite all of the challenges that they have faced. 

The roots symbolise our values, Mauri, Whanaungatanga, Ngākaupai, Kaitiakitanga and Manaakitanga which have kept us grounded  over our years at Mahora. 

Each branch of the rākau represents a skill we have begun to develop over the years. The bottom left branch is the double twist called the Pikorua. It symbolises the joining of two cultures or two people for eternity and friendship for life, whatever happens. An example of this was seen as we  stayed connected and kept each other strong during lockdown even though we were physically isolated from one another.

On the bottom right is the Poutama. This branch means a staircase of growth in knowledge and generations or whakapapa. When we look back on when we started at Mahora we can see the huge growth in our knowledge since then and how Mahora School has helped us. We also acknowledge the students and teachers that have come before us at Mahora School and have shaped it and made it what it is today.

Pākati, the branch on the middle left symbolises courage and strength which we showed during lockdown and against covid. 

The next branch is called Unaunahi. It represents safety and protection. Mahora school showed this by helping us when we are sad and making us feel safe and happy.

The next branch, ahu ahu mataroa, is located at the top left. Near the end of our journey at Mahora School it represents the new challenges that lie ahead including leaving Mahora and beginning Intermediate. Ahu ahu mataroa also means talent which all of us have shown in a variety of unique ways throughout our journey at Mahora. 

Next to that is Mangopare, the hammerhead. It shows that we have all shown leadership, especially nearing the black cap at the top of the Pou. It also symbolises strength  and courage which we demonstrated in the preparation and presentation of our production earlier this year.

From the roots (our values) we now have a stronger tree to guide us through the next challenges we face in life. At the top of our Pou is our black cap. It is surrounded by koru which represent new life. Our tree will keep growing through the black cap and for the rest of our lives. We will take with us the values, skills and memories on our journey beyond Mahora School.