Our School Pukeko

Kia ora e te whānau! Have you ever wondered about our school symbol, the pūkeko? Back in 2003, our whānau chose the pūkeko, a bird that thrives in wetlands, to represent Kaeo School's ability to adapt, overcome challenges, and flourish in our unique environment. Just like the pūkeko, who live in strong social groups and work together to raise their young, our Kura values whanaungatanga and collaboration – that sense of community and connection that's so important here in Kaeo.  

The pūkeko is a special bird too! You'll often see its glossy dark feathers, vibrant red beak, and legs around our local habitats. They're resourceful and adaptable, finding food in lots of different places, and while they might not be the best fliers, they're strong and determined on the ground. In Māori culture, the pūkeko can be seen as clever, which is something we encourage in our tamariki as they learn and grow.

As we continue our journey here at Kaeo School, from learning about our local Whangaroa history to exploring new things, the pūkeko remains a powerful symbol of who we are – resilient, connected, and proud of where we come from