Ngā Uara o Te Kura o Putāruru – Our School Value

Ngā Uara in NZSL
At Putāruru Primary School, we proudly express our Ngā Uara — Manaakitanga, Pono, Manawaroa, and Whakaute — not only through words and actions, but also through New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL).

NZSL is one of the three official languages of our beautiful country, and using it to represent our school values reflects our commitment to inclusion, respect, and honouring the diverse ways we all communicate.

By learning and using NZSL alongside our values, we strengthen connection, understanding, and pride in who we are as a kura.

 
At Putāruru Primary School, our values guide everything we do — from how we learn and teach, to how we relate to one another and the world around us.

Ngā Uara o Te Kura o Putāruru are:
Manaakitanga – Kindness
Pono – Honesty
Manawaroa – Resilience
Whakaute – Respect

These values were developed to reflect the heart of our kura and the aspirations we have for our tamariki. They serve as the foundation of our school culture and support positive relationships, strong learning, and a safe, inclusive environment.

Just like visitors to a marae observe kawa (protocol), everyone who walks through our school gates is expected to uphold these values. They represent not just how we behave — but who we are as a learning community.

Our values are lived daily by our ākonga and kaiako and help us grow not only as learners, but as people. Together, they shape the unique way of being at Putāruru Primary School.

 

 

 

At Putāruru Primary School, our Manukura (school leaders) are positive role models who lead with heart, purpose, and a deep sense of responsibility. They’re chosen not just for their leadership skills, but for the way they consistently live out our school values — Manaakitanga (Kindness), Pono (Honesty), Manawaroa (Resilience), and Whakaute (Respect).

One of the special ways our Manukura lead is by organising and running our school Discos in Terms 1, 2, and 3. These events are always filled with excitement, energy, and creativity — from fun themes and music to games and decorations — all thoughtfully planned by our student leaders.

What makes these discos extra special is that our Ngā Uara guide every part of the planning. Manukura work as a team, showing Pono in how they communicate, Whakaute in how they include others, and Manawaroa as they problem-solve and see their ideas through. Most importantly, they lead with Manaakitanga, making sure every ākonga feels welcome, safe, and part of the fun.

The discos are more than just a good time — they’re an opportunity for our leaders to practise real-world skills like planning, teamwork, and serving their school community in a meaningful way. We are proud of the way our Manukura bring our values to life and help create a school environment where everyone can thrive.

Ka mau te wehi, Manukura – you’re making a real difference.