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Learning about being kaitiaki
At BestStart Hokowhitu a key learning focus for all our amazing tamariki is that they have opportunities to learn about their role in being kaitiaki/caretakers of the environment.
One way in which kaiako whakamana/empowered our tamariki to explore this role was in fundraising for the Wild Base Recovery Centre. At the Wild Base a dedicated team care for injured native birds and run an education centre. Whilst open to the public at certain times a small group of our young kaitiaki were able to go on a private tour of the Base.
From baby tuatara to a curious Ruru/Morepork our tamariki were able to interact with these toanga/treasures of our living world. We learnt about predators and what different birds eat, as well as how to act around hurt animals. Our tamariki seemed particularly engaged with the different habitats, both with what was inside and how they were made. At the end of the tour our tamariki presented the Wild Base with a donation to further support the wild bird rescue and recovery programme.
On the walk back to our base at BestStart Hokowhitu our tamariki confidently discussed their favourite part of this experience. This ranged from ducks to the big rocks in the habitats. Our tamariki were proud to be contributing to looking after injured manu and we look forward to continuing on our kaitiaki journey. Many thanks to the Wild Base Recovery team.