This year, at BestStart Flat Bush we proudly embraced Māori Language Week 2025 — Te Wiki o te Reo Māori — with a week full of learning, laughter and cultural connection.
The theme, “Ake ake ake” (A forever language), guided our daily activities and inspired both tamariki (children) and kaiako (teachers) to celebrate te reo Māori in meaningful ways. Every day we sang waiata (songs) to introduce our tamariki to te reo in a fun and engaging way.
We also enjoyed poi dancing and storytime sessions featuring beloved Māori legends such as Māui and the Sun, which sparked curiosity and lively discussions. Tamariki learned basic phrases like kia ora, haere mai and kei te pēhea koe?, and practised the days of the week in te reo Māori.
Throughout the week, tamariki created art and crafts inspired by Māori designs and patterns, including painting and weaving activities.
Māori Language Week reminded us of the importance of language in shaping identity and building community. At our centre, we are committed to continuing this journey — nurturing a love for te reo Māori in our youngest learners every week of the year.