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Bush Trips are Back!
Our much-beloved bush walks are up and running after a 3 year hiatus due to Covid-19. This excursion consists of eight tamariki and two Kaiako adventuring out to explore Otari Wilton Bush once a week. On a Monday morning, we skip down to the local bus stop to jump on the Route 14 bus which drops us at the boundary of the bush.
Through this excursion, we have wonderful opportunities to demonstrate and have discussions with our tamariki about the importance of kaitiakitanga - the guardianship and conservation of our land and surroundings. The tamariki learn through gentle communication from the Kaiako about the kawa (guidelines) that are in place to keep us safe whilst exploring and we are always sure to manaaki (cherish) and aroha (love) Papatūānuku (earth mother) as we explore her beautiful surroundings.
We are very blessed to get to see some of Wellington's natural beauty on these trips and get up close and personal with some of the feathered friends that have made their homes in Otari Wilton Bush. We will often be welcomed into Otari by the chorus of Tui singing their magical waiata (songs) above our heads. Cheeky Pīwakawaka will playfully flit in front of us as we explore the different tracks and the Kākā will often be seen above us calling to one another. This excursion is an important part of our BestStart Leeds Street culture as it links strongly to our Centre philosophy and vision of being urban explorers in our neighbourhood. This is a beloved part of our centre ethos and the tamariki and Kaiako take great pride in having the opportunity to be a part of it.