Our tamariki recently enjoyed another wonderful Matariki visit from the Te Awamutu Museum team. This has become a regular part of our Matariki celebrations, and we value the opportunity each year to strengthen our partnership with the museum and enrich our local curriculum.
Through storytelling, music, hands-on experiences, and plenty of fun, tamariki explored the meaning of Matariki as a time to remember those who have passed, celebrate the present, and look ahead with hope for the future. They shared what they already knew about Matariki, the stars, and the traditions they have been learning about in the centre.
A special puppet friend helped guide the session, encouraging curiosity, questions, and participation from everyone. Tamariki also explored traditional gardening tools, learned how Matariki signalled the Māori New Year, and discovered how people have celebrated this special time for generations. To finish the experience, children created their own kites, representing hopes, wishes, and connections to the Matariki stars.
We are incredibly grateful to the Te Awamutu Museum team for continuing to share their knowledge with us each year. These regular visits help deepen our tamariki's understanding of te ao Māori and strengthen the meaningful connections between our centre, local history, and our wider community.