Puhoro - Our Motif

The design to the right was created by local artist, Russell Wilson. The idea of a new image had been discussed for several years by staff and students. Not meant to replace the College Coat of Arms but more to have elements both Waikato- Tainui, a clearer link to taha Maori (roll presently is approximately 70% Maori) and has education woven in the design.

The adoption of this puhoro officially occurred in 2014. After local kaumatua approved this design, the College Board of Trustees formally approved the adoption and incorporation into branding the College. The College owns the design and has full property rights to how it may be used. 

Tim Foy

Principal

Huntly College

Puhoro / design for Huntly College Te whakamaramatanga

The image depicted (or tohu or puhoro) represents the relationship within Huntly College, the community and Tainui whānui. Tainui waka designs are incorporated also.

The design signifies the journey of Tainui waka from Hawaiki and the vast travels the Tainui waka travelled to where it now lays at rest in the Kawhia harbour.

In the context of relationships and education, this relates to the relationships forged between student and teacher. The journey faced by these parties from the beginning to the end of schooling. Depicting the pathway for both to each enhance and commit to be successful, achieve a positive result. Ultimately fulfilling our vision for students, be successful, contributing, healthy citizens of Aotearoa.

The flow of negative space relates to the Waikato awa or as the Aho or thread that binds all hapu and iwi together in this region / Tainui waka.

In the context of the college, this relates to the shared forces that help the College to operate. Waikato – Tainui providing whenua / land, Rahui Pokeka this community, resources, students and staff combine and help strengthen and develop the College leading into the future. Working together to become one.

The Kingitanga is relevant within this tohu as Kingitanga kahui ariki provide identity to Māori and New Zealanders as governance to insure our best interests are upheld. The Kingitanga is of huge significance to Tainui as affirming the mana, integrity and identity if the iwi.

The merging of elements, relationships and manaakitanga together, we can create successful governance for Huntly College striving to do the best we can for the community. This incorporates students, staff, parents and caregivers, iwi and hapu and all those who have a part to play in our College.

The Kiingitanga element is signified in the motif or puhoro as being the whole design.