The Arts and Culture Awards evening was a spectacular celebration of talent, creativity, and dedication. A full house reflected the strong support from whānau, aiga, and families, all eager to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of our ākonga. From visual arts to drama, music, dance, film, spoken word, and cultural groups, the awards highlighted the passion, artistry, leadership, and service that enrich every corner of Waitākere College.

Congratulations to all our award recipients and nominees. Your artistry, leadership, and commitment strengthen the cultural life of our kura, and we also acknowledge the support of whānau, kaiako, and friends, whose encouragement makes these successes possible.

Te Taumata Toi

Te Taumata Toi – the summit of all Arts – is the most prestigious award of the night. It recognises a student whose artistry, leadership, and cultural identity have lifted them to extraordinary heights across multiple disciplines, making them a true heartbeat of the school’s cultural life.

Taipua Kipa – Winner

Our Head Prefect, Taipua, has truly reached the summit of the arts at Waitākere College. An Excellence-level Drama and Dance performer, Senior Sculpture and Painting artist, Te Papa Ringa Toi Winner (2024), and Pat Hanly Auckland Art Gallery Finalist (2025), he has also commanded our stages in Mamma Mia!, The Addams Family, and Bring It On. Taipua was selected as a Conference Lead for the 2025 Polyfest committee and placed second as Kaitātaki Tāne for kapa haka (Division 2). His achievements extend across Ngā Manu Kōrero competitions, dance showcases, spoken word finals, and even national media features. Taipua embodies artistic excellence, cultural pride, and leadership at the highest level.

Blessing Moevao – Runner Up

As Performing Arts Leader, Blessing’s passion for dance and music is infectious. Excelling in both Drama and Dance, she has contributed to Samoan and Tongan cultural groups, Dance Showcases, SUSO, and major productions such as Bring It On. A dedicated Music student and pianist, Blessing brings depth and authenticity to her performances. Her energy inspires others to celebrate identity and joy through the arts.

Service to Arts and Culture

This award recognises students whose behind-the-scenes contributions and cultural leadership ensure the arts at Waitākere flourish. This year, the Service to Arts and Culture Award was shared jointly by Angelica Sabili and Parisha Kumar.

Angelica Sabili

A leader of the Filipino Group, Angelica has been central to arts and culture for five years. From her debut in the 2021 School Show to her performances in 2023 and 2025, she has combined artistic talent with cultural pride. A gifted spoken word artist, dancer, Polyfest Conference Lead, and reliable Hall Crew member, Angelica’s service and leadership have made a lasting impact.

Parisha Kumar

As Indian Group Leader, Parisha has brought Bollywood energy to our kura, from Dance Showcases to the Bollywood Showdown. She has also supported countless events through her work with the Hall Crew and contributed to school shows and Performing Arts Academy. Parisha’s dedication highlights the powerful intersection of culture, service, and creativity.

Other Te Taumata Toi Nominees

Ariel Blumberg

An Excellence-level Sculpture student and finalist at the Pat Hanly Auckland Art Awards, Ariel is also a long-standing performer in school shows including Changing Minds, Bring It On, The Addams Family, and Mamma Mia! She is a true all-rounder in both visual and performing arts.

Izrael Olsen

An outstanding Drama student, Izrael has lit up the stage in leading roles in Bring It On, The Addams Family, and Mamma Mia! Involved in kapa haka and Dance Showcase, she combines dramatic excellence with cultural pride.

Malcolm Moore

With four years of memorable performances, including leads in Changing Minds, The Addams Family, and Mamma Mia!, Malcolm has shown sustained excellence in Drama. His background in Music adds depth and nuance to every role.

📸Full album of photos here 📸