The power of cultural exchange: high school takes kapa haka to Japan
The power of cultural exchange to connect people and foster friendships was on full display during Wainuiomata High School's Japan visit for kapa haka and Japanese language students late last year. The journey deepened the students’ understanding of both Japanese and Māori cultures, connecting them and those they met through music, dance and language writes deputy principal Matauranga Te Rauna.
The kapa haka group started their tour in the city of Iizuka, on Japan’s southern-most main island, Fukuoka
Arriving in Tokyo, the kapa haka and Japanese language students split into two—the Japanese language students heading to Osaka, while the kapa haka students ventured further south to the small (by Japanese standards) city of Iizuka, on Japan’s southern-most main island, Fukuoka. This article will focus on the kapa haka group’s adventures.
In Lizuka, the students were warmly welcomed by Iizuka High School and their host families. The hospitality extended to the students made them feel as though they were being cared for on their very own marae.
Matauranga: "The hospitality extended to the students made them feel as though they were being cared for on their very own marae."
During their stay in Iizuka, the students shared their culture with the local schools. The highlight was a powerful and emotional performance at a local preschool, which was so impactful that it made the regional newspaper.
The students’ haka, graceful poi dances, and songs left a lasting impression on the community. In return, the Iizuka High School Brass Band treated the group to a performance that also moved everyone deeply.
The connection between the two cultures was palpable, with both groups feeling a deep bond through their shared experiences in music and performance.
Matauranga: "The students’ haka, graceful poi dances, and songs left a lasting impression on the community."
Leaving Iizuka was an emotional moment for the group. The warmth and kindness from the Iizuka community left a profound impact on the students, and they departed for Tokyo with hearts full of gratitude.
Upon their arrival, the kapa haka students performed at Jitsugyo High School in Kokubunji, a city that makes up part of greater metropolitan Tokyo. Hosted by the local Waseda Jitsugyo High School whanau, this was a chance to showcase Māori culture in another part of Japan and deepen the students’ cultural exchanges.
Shrine and temple visits provided the students with insights into Japan's ancient culture
A visit to Tokyo's oldest-established temple, Sensō-ji, was a highlight of the tour. The temple was founded in 645 AD, though the temple was destroyed during the World War II firebombing of Tokyo and rebuilt in the early 1950s. The visit allowed the students to explore the main hall, a five-story pagoda and large gates, as well as participate in the Buddhist rituals.
The students returned home with new friendships, a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture, and a stronger sense of pride in their own Māori heritage.
Visiting Tokyo's Sensō-ji temple was one of many highlights of the trip
This trip has undoubtedly created memories that will last a lifetime. The Kapa Haka students gained invaluable experiences, both in terms of cultural exchange and personal growth. They have returned inspired to continue sharing their culture and ready for the next adventure, wherever it may take them.
We look forward to continuing the cultural exchanges and building upon the strong foundations established during this remarkable trip to Japan.
The Foundation's Sports Programme provides New Zealand sportspeople opportunities to grow more knowledgeable, connected and confident with Asia.
The Student Sports Fund provides grants for secondary and tertiary students travelling to Asia for sports to include cultural activities to their itineraries.
