Te Mahanahana, meaning "warmth", is the heart of Massey High School's marae and stands as a symbol of identity, learning, community and belonging.
The vision for Te Mahanahana grew from a desire to create a permanent Māori cultural space where students, whānau and the wider community could gather, celebrate, learn and strengthen connections. Through the dedication of many people—particularly Whaea Awa Hudson, the School Whānau Committee and countless supporters—that vision became a reality.
One of the most remarkable chapters in the marae's history was the creation of its whakairo (carvings). Over more than four years, skilled Māori carvers from Paremoremo Prison worked alongside school representatives under the guidance of kaumātua and tikanga expert Des Ripi. The project became far more than a carving programme; it was a journey of learning, restoration, cultural pride and personal transformation. Strong relationships developed between the school, the carvers and the wider community, demonstrating the power of whakawhanaungatanga, respect and shared purpose.
The carvings were completed and installed in early 1999 through a series of traditional ceremonies and blessings that honoured Māori tikanga. Soon afterwards, Te Mahanahana welcomed Her Royal Highness Princess Anne during her visit to Massey High School, marking an important milestone in the marae's history.
The marae is named Te Mahanahana (Warmth), while the wharekai is called Manawanui (Perseverance). The marae itself is known as Tiriwa, acknowledging Te Wao Nui o Tiriwa, the great forest that once stretched across the Waitākere region. Together these names reflect the values of hospitality, resilience, identity and connection to the whenua.
Today, Te Mahanahana continues to be a place where students are welcomed, achievements are celebrated, culture is honoured and lifelong connections are formed. It remains an enduring taonga for Massey High School, inspiring generations to embrace the values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and learning.
