CulturalMāoriScienceCurriculum
Brenna Sinclair, 3 August 2026
Science Wānanga
Last week, eight students headed over the hill to Āraiteuru Marae for a three-day Science Wānanga.
In a rare display of teenage punctuality, they arrived a full 30 minutes before we were set to depart!
Joining students from Otago Girls', Bayfield and Queen's, the boys embraced every opportunity the wānanga offered. From confidently introducing themselves during the mihi whakatau to diving into science workshops, they represented the school with enthusiasm, curiosity and plenty of mana. Highlights included creating natural dyes, investigating the physics of light, exploring toi Māori inspired by Matariki, and discovering that science is even more memorable when it involves lasers, fire demonstrations and safely igniting "hands".
Evenings were just as memorable, with waiata sessions, creative skits and handcrafted Matariki night lights proving that teamwork, laughter and a little friendly embarrassment are all essential parts of learning and whanaungatanga.
The final day at the University of Otago offered a fascinating glimpse into cutting-edge research in multiple Science departments, before a coded library challenge. The students returned tired, inspired and still smiling - even as the rain welcomed the weekend.
The boys were outstanding! They showed courage, kindness and inclusiveness throughout the trip. It was a fantastic kaupapa, and we look forward to offering this opportunity to more students in the future.
In true OBHS fashion, I will end with a whakatauki;
Poipoia te kākano, kia puāwai — Nurture the seed, and it will blossom.
