Music and Cultural Groups
Kapa Haka - Junior
The junior kapa haka group is a fun, student-led Māori performing arts group that celebrates and promotes Māori culture. We do this through waiata (songs), kanikani (dance) and ngā tākaro (traditional Māori games). We practise and learn together fostering a sense of cultural pride.
Kapa Haka - Senior
All senior students are welcome to join Kapa Haka, which is held once a week. Led by a tutor, Ngā Pumawana o Waiatarua learn and perform our school waiata, mōteatea, waiata poi, karakia and haka. The tutor also ensures our school leaders are well prepared for their roles in our Mihi Whakatau.
Pasifika
Students from all backgrounds are able to embrace Pasifika culture and audition to learn dances. Those who aren’t selected for the performance group are encouraged to join the Passion Club at lunchtime, where we celebrate Pasifika dances, cultures, and languages.
Marimba
The Marimba Group performs a range of tuned percussion instruments and collaborates with other schools at the annual Marimba Festival, in addition to participating in various school-based performances. There are limited spots available for students in Years 6-8.
Rock Bands
Ellerslie School offers both a Senior Rock Band and a Development Band for students who already know how to play their instruments. In these bands, students learn to collaborate as a group to create professional performances. Both bands have the opportunity to participate in various school-based performances. There are limited spots available for students interested in joining.
Ukulele Group
The Ukulele Groups are an increasingly popular music opportunity at Ellerslie School. There are options for both beginners and experienced players, where students can learn simple chords and strumming patterns, as well as more complex melody lines. All ukulele group members have the chance to participate in various school-based performances. This group is open to students in Year 4 and above.