Nestled within Hamilton Boys' High School, the Whare Ako, or Māori house of learning, stands as a beacon of culture, identity and pride for students. The floor of the special space features Interface's Aerial Flying Colours collection, with tiles in Ink (black), Smoke (white-grey), and Berry (red), arranged in a herringbone pattern across four quadrants, converging seamlessly at the centre to form the iconic Poutama design.

The Poutama pattern is laden with profound cultural meaning. It signifies the stairway to the upper realms, where each step represents a level of attainment and the journey towards knowledge and achievement. This symbolism resonates deeply within the school’s ethos, encouraging students to strive for excellence in all aspects of their education and personal development.

Ngā Hau e Whā is acknowledged in the design, as the patterning comes from the four corners of the house, terminating at the centre, showing Kotahitanga (coming together in unification) of many different peoples of varying background and ethnicities, for a shared purpose – educational excellence.

Each colour used within the floor design carries its own significance. The creation story is referred to in the Ink (black), which represents Te Korekore, the realm of potential, bringing depth and strength. The colour Smoke (white-grey), embodies Te Ao Mārama, the realm of light, lending clarity and purity. The colour Berry (red) symbolises the students at Hamilton Boy’s High School coming into being and their journey to enlightenment. The colour is placed in the realm of Te Whai Ao, inviting vitality and energy into the space.

The floor of the Whare Ako at Hamilton Boys' High School is a manifestation of cultural pride, spiritual guidance, and educational aspiration. Rooted in the wisdom of Māori tradition, it stands as a testament to the school's dedication to fostering holistic development and nurturing the spiritual well-being of its students, offering a haven where young men can connect with their heritage and find solace in their journey of growth.

Congratulations to the team at Thorburn’s for their outstanding work in executing the inspiring vision of the Hamilton Boys' High School community and the PAUA team on the floors of Hamilton Boys’ High School Whare Ako.