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Matariki Celebration fun!
We started the week with lots of storytelling and discussion about the history of why we celebrate Matariki. Ngā tamariki learnt that here in Aotearoa, it is a time to remember our ancestors and the past and to plan for the future. We learnt about the star constellation Pleiades/Matariki which marks the beginning of the New Year for many iwi.
We shared various legends that link whakapapa back to the creation story of Ranginui and Papatūānuku. There was lots of waiata played, tamariki singing and time for kanikani as well. Tamariki enjoyed participating in a wide range of activities and artwork/mahi toi. The Kindy environment changed as we prepared for the celebration. There were lots of glittering stars with whānau photo's on them, kites, and colourful displays.
Whānau were invited to Kindy during the week to spend time and to contribute and attend a shared kai time. We discussed how other countries and cultures also celebrate when the seven stars are visible. Some of the tamariki also got the opportunity in the garden, harvesting and re-planting new plants with Dan.
But most of all the week reflected our centre priorities of whanaungatanga/partnerships and ōritetanga/inclusive curriculum and mana whenua/sustainability.