In loving memory of our darling, Maria.
05-12-1975 to 28-05-2023
(47 years young)
A Poem by Ata and Paora,
for our beautiful sister
With smiles of a contagious laugh,
Her spirit remains a guiding staff.
A sportswoman, devoted, true,
On field, on court, or ocean blue.
At waka bow she’d stroke the sea,
Whose wake unites community.
As she aged, she sought to teach,
In students' hearts her lessons reach.
Her culture's flag, she proudly waved,
In every word, her language paved.
Raising a family with love in heart,
Gave rise to Maria's purpose, her spirit,
her zest, her place in our hearts.
Ko te manu tāiko o te kāhui
Ko te kāhui tērā e pōkaikaha ana
Kei te kōtuku rerenga tahi e kukume ana i ōna uri
ki te ikeiketanga