14th February 2023

 

Tena Koutou e te Whānau o Matipo, 

 

After what was a windy and somewhat dubious night, I hope you all managed to stay safe and warm. 

 

I firstly would like to thank the Matipo Community. I have received many emails offering support to clean and clear the school grounds. This demonstrates how kind, caring and supportive our community is. It makes me extremely proud to be the Tumuaki with an awesome community behind it.  Thank you for all the kind offers. 

 

A site assessment has been conducted this morning and while there are a few branches and other debris around the school grounds we are happy to report there is no damage to any of the school property.

 

After meeting with Te Atatu Schools Cluster and our Commissioner – Bruce Adin, the health and safety of our staff and tamariki continues to be our priority in any decision making. 

 

Therefore, with our school site accessible and no damage to buildings or signs of any further trees falling. We expect Matipo Road School will be open for all staff and tamariki on Wednesday 15th February. However, if the weather takes a turn for the worse overnight and there are health and safety concerns for the staff and tamariki onsite, whānau will be notified immediately via HERO. 

 

School gates will open at 8:15am with school starting at 8:50am as usual. Please be mindful of the road works currently on Matipo Road. 

 

We do understand that some whānau may be hesitant or reluctant to return to school. You will make the best and safest decision for your own whānau. Should you choose not to return to school tomorrow (Wednesday 15th February) we support your decision.

 

We look forward to welcoming those of you who decide to return to school tomorrow. 

 

Stay safe and warm. 

 

Kia haumaru kia koutou katoa, 

Jonnie Black

Tumuaki – Principal