Kuratau Entranceway Upgrade 2017

The entranceway is a metaphor for the transformation of the children that pass through the school.

On the left side, we have the nesting Tūī, to represent the children that first enter the school. They are being nurtured, educated and looked after all snug in their nest.

On the right side, we have the mighty Kāhu, positioned in an energetic posture about to leap up off into the sunset, ready for lift-off! Representing the stronger educated more confident children as they leave the school.

The kōwhaiwhai used is called ‘Mangōpare’ (hammerhead shark), to represent strong spirit and determination. These life symbols are painted in white to represent the realm of Te Ao, the realm of light, Te Ao Mārama.

The black colour used coming up from the ground represents the realm of Te Kore (the potential, the void), whereas the transition into red, as if it’s  glowing, represents Te Whai-ao, the glimmer at dawn and reminds us of the separation of Rangi and Papa.

Throughout the day, the sun (te Rā) passes over the gateway from the Tūī side, up and over, and back down to the side of the Kāhu, another metaphor for the children’s journey of learning each day.