It’s been a vibrant and heart-warming season at the centre as we celebrated the beautiful cultures of the Pacific Islands and the special role of our amazing dads.
We began with Cook Islands Language Week, where our tamariki explored treasured cultural items, including woven coconut-leaf fans, colourful lei, hand-stitched tivaevae blankets, bright ei katu flower crowns, and the sweet scent of mānōi oil made from gardenia and frangipani. Our learning spaces were alive with curiosity, colour and proud storytelling.
Then came Tongan Language Week, and our preschool tamariki explored the meaning of the Tongan National Flag before creating their own versions, full of creativity and pride.
Our pēpi showed gentle care as they played with toy turtles, a beautiful nod to Tongan culture, where turtles are considered sacred symbols of wisdom and protection, as well as representing a deep spiritual connection between people and the sea.
And just when we thought the celebrations couldn’t get any brighter, Father’s Day arrived. The centre was buzzing as dads came in to receive personalised gifts lovingly made by their children. They joined in activities, shared morning tea and enjoyed a rocking good time together. The smiles said it all. These moments were truly treasured.
Across all these celebrations, our purpose remains the same: to nurture cultural awareness, honour diversity, and strengthen the bonds between tamariki, whānau and community.
Whether we’re exploring Pacific treasures or celebrating the love of our dads, every moment is an opportunity to learn, connect and grow together.