Waitākere College students, leaders, and the community came together to celebrate the opening and blessing of Fale Uaitakele, our first Pacific building. Fifteen years in the making, this milestone represents the fulfilment of a shared vision. A symbol of unity, culture, and student achievement, this special day honoured the hands that built it, the hearts that dreamed it, and the spirit that will continue to inspire generations. 

In collaboration with our Vocational Pathways team, the project was inspired and led by Unitec Tutor Ruben Sigglekow alongside our Year 13 Building Academy students, who spent 30 weeks learning and crafting this stunning Fale, later transported to the college as a permanent Taonga. Angelo Tepania, our Building Academy Teacher, played a pivotal role in supporting the students throughout this journey.

The ceremony began with prayer and words of affirmation from Reverend Asora Amosa, followed by a Sāmoan Ava Ceremony led by Miss Auvaa and language students, supported by key speaker Fiu Magalogo (Sāmoan High Chief / Parent). Principal Mark Shanahan welcomed students, whānau, and dignitaries, highlighting the importance of the day for the students and the school's partnership with Unitec and our wider school community. It was an honour to have our Kaumatua Warahi and Linda Paki, past school leaders, Whaea Pearl Snowden, Rumaki senior students, and Head Prefects, who contributed heartfelt mihi blending Māori and Pacific traditions. Many VIP guests attended, including Executive Director MIT / Unitec Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, Ants Cotton, and Silvia Safia Meaola, whānau and friends. 

The design of the Fale features 10 Pou (poles), representing Sāmoan Matai staff, our Principal as Head Chief, senior and past leaders who championed the Academies, with the names of all Building Academy students and Ruben Sigglekow on the edges of the faalo. (ceiling edge). The Pou symbolises a spiritual connection to the people and lineage. Fale Uaitakele now stands as a place to inspire, connect, and unite all students and the wider school community.