Tamariki and whānau at BestStart Long Bay are being welcomed through a new tomokanga (gateway) that reflects the identity, history and significance of the local whenua (land).
Unveiled during Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, the handcrafted gateway has become a special taonga for the centre community. Replacing a temporary cardboard structure, it now provides a permanent welcome for tamariki, whānau and visitors. The unveiling ceremony brought together tamariki, whānau, iwi and community members, with tamariki singing waiata to mark the occasion.
Wanting to create a permanent welcome for tamariki and whānau, Centre Manager Rashika Prasad approached local rongatoi (artist) Mel Whaanga to help bring her vision to life. Drawing inspiration from traditional carvings, cultural traditions and local stories, the tomokanga reflects the identity, history and significance of the local whenua.
Mel, whose mokopuna attends the centre, has become an honorary kaumātua for the BestStart Long Bay community, helping strengthen connections between the centre, whānau and the wider community.
"One of our philosophies is kotahitanga; we work with each other, and manaakitanga; we look after each other. He's looking after us because we're looking after his mokopuna," Rashika said.
Kaiako Sammy Kelly, who grew up in Long Bay, says the tomokanga is just one example of the centre's wider commitment to te ao Māori and helping tamariki develop a strong connection to their local whenua and community.
"We're teaching them to look after their community and give back to their community. Rather than being tokenistic with our use of te reo, we are using it profoundly every day," said Sammy.
The centre's commitment to helping tamariki develop a strong understanding of and pride in their local culture extends well beyond Te Wiki o te Reo Māori. Kaiako weave te reo Māori, tikanga and local knowledge throughout everyday learning, including visits to Oneroa (Long Bay Beach), where tamariki help plant sand dunes and learn about their role as kaitiaki of the whenua.
Mel says the mahi taking place at the centre is something special.
"What they're doing here is magnificent," said Mel. "I learnt my first haka at eight years old, and these tamariki are already learning about their culture. They're like a kura waka, carrying a precious treasure that they'll take out into the world."
The project has strengthened connections between the centre, whānau and the wider community. More than a physical structure, the tomokanga stands as a lasting symbol of belonging and connection to the people, places and stories of the local area.