Nestled away in south Auckland’s Mangere suburb, is Te Kura Kaupapa o Mangere.
You'd be forgiven if this is the first time you've heard of the small Maori immersion school. Its entire roll is 243 students.
It's no reflection on the school’s heart though - teacher Chris Whaanga says it’s got that in spades.
"Just love seeing a big smile on their faces... just to make them happy, and proud."
There are three big passions here: learning, Te Reo and sport.
But, TKKOM battles with resources. While it's filled with a cast of teachers who regularly go above and beyond for the pupils, it's financial means that hold the school back.
So, when The AM Show, Rebel Sport and international rugby star, Rebecca Wood turned up with $5,000 for them to spend at Rebel Sport, Mr Whaanga promised it'd be put to good use.
"Maybe we could get some balls to bring out at lunch, maybe some sports equipment and uniforms."
The school was nominated by Mr Whaanga himself. He sees the passion his children have for rugby league, netball and other sports every time he steps into the playground.
"Our school is in big demand for sports equipment. We need outdoor and indoor sports equipment to thrive and when we have so much talent in the school, there is a lot of demand."
He's not lying about the talent at this school either.
Nigel Iro, who walked Newshub through the welcoming Powhiri, was part of the under 16 Maori Kiwis side earlier this year.
And to be fair, it wasn’t that long ago that Ms Wood turned up to her first training as a New Zealand representative.
"It was just an opportunity that came up, I just got asked to turn up to a Black Fern training and they said if I kept working hard, I could make the team. the drive behind me was that, I had this opportunity, so I might as well give it a go."
The 30-year-old is the face of Rebel Sport campaign: "How many lives you live is up to you." Her advice to anybody pursuing a career in sport is simple.
"Just have a go, don’t be afraid. You never know, you could be good at it."
As for Mr Whaanga; his dream is to see every single pupil at TKKOM in a position to chase their goals.
"The best thing about this job is the smiles these kids have on their faces. They cherish what you are as a teacher, where you come from, they cherish themselves."
This article was created for Rebel Sport.
