Dawson Tamatea was one of the most popular teachers at the Palmerston North school in Wellington, New Zealand. He taught gym and math for over 30 years, leaving his impression on the school forever. When he died, he left a large hole in the community and the lives of the students. But since he was such a great teacher, the students wanted to do something special for his funeral: they decide to perform a “Haka,” a traditional dance of the New Zealand aboriginals, the Maori.
This dance is performed to intimidate enemies. The school was only open for half the day so that all the students and teachers could attend the funeral and perform their Haka. The performance must be seen:
The school wrote: “The entire school performing the Haka during the arrival of Mr. Tamatea in the hearse. This was a very emotional and powerful performance. We are extremely proud of our boys' performance and we know that Mr Tamatea would be too.” This performance shows how much these students admired their teacher. It also shows how much influence even one person can have on their community and others around them without being rich or famous. His name will echo forever in the halls of his school. Add your voice to that echo and give your own Haka salute by sharing this story.
