Student Profile Ella Tacon

Kia ora koutou! Ko Ella tōku ingoa and I am the Deputy Head of Whānaungatanga at our kura for 2025!

Describe yourself in 3 words

Kind, Pukumahi, Outgoing 

What extracurricular activities or clubs do you participate in at school, and what do you find most enjoyable about them?

Throughout my time at CGHS I have absolutely loved getting to be a part of a variety of different groups and activities. Sports are one of my biggest passions, so being a part of the school rugby team has always been a big priority for me. Getting involved in a sport at school allows me to not only do the sport I love, but also connect with other girls who are passionate about the same thing. Alongside this, Whānau Kōmiti and kapa haka are other areas where I thrive. Being able to connect with my culture and other girls on their cultural journeys is really special to me and something I’m grateful that I can be a part of. 

Can you describe some positive or memorable experiences you’ve

had at CGHS.

All of my rugby memories have been super awesome, from 15s to 7s or fun trainings to South Island competitions. I’ve loved it all, but being injured last season meant I could shift my focus to new activities for a change. 

In 2024, I competed in Manu kōrero ( a speech competition for Māori, and Māori speaking high schoolers). This was a big change from anything I’d usually do, so for me, it was absolutely terrifying, but with the help of my kaiako and friends I felt confident. I competed in an improv, and prepared speech category over 2 days, and came away with results I was stoked with! Coming 1st in my improv and 2nd in my prepared kōrero was something I didn’t expect and absolutely couldn’t have done without my whānau at Te Kura ō Hine Waiora. This is definitely my most memorable experience at our kura to date and I’ll cherish it forever! 

What are your favourite subjects at school and why do you enjoy them?

I love all of the subjects I’ve taken over my time at our kura, but two that really stand out to me are Te Reo Māori, and English. I love being able to learn Te Reo Māori and reconnect with my culture through this. I also love the community we create in our classes. English is another favourite subject for me because it gives me a chance to write about, and discuss things I’m passionate about. It also allows me to learn about other topics and explore ideas that I usually wouldn’t.