Students and staff at Mana College gathered today to celebrate the life of Charlie Waihōpai Jackson, a cherished member of the Te Whare Ako community, on what would have been his 15th birthday.
Charlie passed away on 27 April 2025. To honour his memory, a tree was planted on the school grounds, creating a living tribute that will grow alongside the community he touched. The planting ceremony served as both a moment of remembrance and a symbol of Charlie’s enduring impact on those who knew him.
“It was a beautiful way to celebrate his life,” said one staff member. “As the tree grows, it will be a daily reminder of Charlie’s presence and the joy he brought to us all.”
The tribute reflects the school’s commitment to honouring its students in meaningful ways, reinforcing a sense of unity and compassion within the wider Porirua community.