At BestStart Papatoetoe, Matariki isn’t just a celebration—it’s a living tradition. With waiata, healthy soup, and strong whānau connections, our tamariki shine as we honour the values that bring our centre community together each year.
At our centre, BestStart Papatoetoe, Matariki has blossomed into a cherished tradition—and this year’s celebration was nothing short of magical. Every year, we gather during this special time to honour new beginnings, celebrate togetherness, and embrace the values that shape our centre’s kaupapa.
For 2025, we marked the occasion with our beloved Healthy Soup Night, a festive ritual that aligns beautifully with our Healthy Heart Programme. Surrounded by whānau and our delightful tamariki, the evening was a warm reminder of the power of coming together.
The children filled the air with joy as they sang waiata with confidence and charm, reminding us of how deeply rooted they are in our centre’s values. The scent of delicious soup, lovingly prepared by our centre cook, mingled with the comforting aroma of fresh rewena Māori bread, creating an inviting and homely atmosphere.
Matariki isn’t just about the stars—it’s about reconnecting with home, whānau, and the shared experiences that bring us closer. This kaupapa aligns seamlessly with our centre’s vision and philosophy: forming meaningful relationships and working in partnership with each family.
What made this year’s celebration even more special was welcoming new kaiako into our team and acknowledging the families who have recently joined our community. It was a beautiful opportunity to connect, strengthen bonds, and celebrate the diverse whānau who make our centre such a vibrant place to grow and learn.
The evening was filled with laughter, storytelling, songs, and full bellies—a symbol of unity, joy, and belonging. Watching our tamariki delight in sharing this experience with their loved ones was a powerful reminder of how traditions like Matariki weave us together in deeper, more meaningful ways.
Here’s to many more evenings like this, where learning extends beyond the classroom and into the heart of our community.