We were so humbled to be able to celebrate our wonderful kaumatua and ex-principal, Mr Joe Tipene’s, 80th birthday at Opua School on Friday, 10th November.

Joe was welcomed to school with a karanga and, during our powhiri, we shared our kapahaka with Joe and there were speeches that reminded us all of what Joe has done for us over the years and the wonderful legacy that he has left us with. We were blessed to be able to give Joe gifts from the school and the children that brought back great memories for him and us. The wonderful event was concluded with a beautiful shared kai for Morning Tea.

Here is Joe with Paytyn just prior to the cutting of Joe’s birthday cake and the sharing of our kai.