The Meaning of Toi Ohomai

Toi is the pinnacle of achievement. It inspires the pursuit of excellence. It is also a reference to Toi-te-huatahi and Toi Kai-rākau – a common eponymous ancestor of iwi across the region.

Ohomai is an awakening, to be alert and to create a shift in mindset. It is moving from a place of disillusionment to enlightenment and becoming transformed. It is also a reference to Ohomairangi, an eponymous ancestor of Te Arawa and Tainui.

How to pronounce ‘Toi Ohomai:

Mai also represents the geographical markers of the region in which Toi Ohomai operates, Mai Maketū ki Tongariro, mai i ngā Kuri a Whārei ki Tihirau, tae atu ki te Kaokaoroa a Patatere - it acknowledges the Mana Whenua, the place of learning for the students and also the place and space from which students originate and come from, their iwi, their community, in the region and across the country.