By Craig Burton
May 13, 2026Pukekohe High School's MANA Values are central to student wellbeing and in building a healthy school culture. Each value symbol has a unique meaning. When combined they form a modern looking crest design with the kohekohe plant at the heart.
School Values Symbols
Manaakitanga
Respect, Responsibility, Kindness
The interconnected koru form a heart shape highlighting the importance of students having a caring attitude toward each other
Aarahiitanga
Leadership, Pride, Honour
It shows a hill shape with the school kohekohe leaf at the centre. This alludes to the maunga in the area and, in particular, Pukekohe Hill. This association highlights the proud nature of the school and the leadership opportunities it offers students. The poutama pattern represents the importance that Puekekohe High School places on striving for excellence in education.
Puumautanga
Resilience, Commitment, Perseverance
The mangopare patterns, pushing upwards, symbolise the strength, determination and resilience of Pukekohe High School students when faced with everyday challenges.
Kotahitanga
Unity, Community, Relationships
The interconnected koru are like rippling waves on the Manukau Harbour that move together in perfect harmony. This symbolises the unity, community and importance of relationships at the school.
School Strategic Plan Graphic
The kohekohe is at the centre with each leaf representing a school goal - Uara (living our values), Haapori (community connection), Ako (quality teaching and learning) and Te Pae Oorite (equitable opportunities and outcomes. These are supported by the school values with the overarching vision around the outside.
From The Deputy Principal
"Working with Craig was a pleasure. His professionalism, creativity, and respect for our school’s identity made the process smooth and inspiring. He took the time to listen carefully, transforming the stories of our people, place, and values into striking emblems that truly reflect who we are. Our new MANA values are something our whole school and community are getting behind.
Ngaa mihi nui."
Sofia Kaur - Pukekohe High School
Interested in some new values symbols for your high school?
I'd love to work with you on creating some for your school. Read some of the Recent Projects below, if you'd like to explore this further, or give me a call.
