At BestStart Meadowbank, we are proud of our growing partnership with the Meadowbank Primary School kapa haka group. Our strong community partnerships help us create a rich and supportive learning environment for all tamariki.
This collaboration provides valuable opportunities for our tamariki to connect with Māori culture in meaningful and engaging ways. Together, our children and their tamariki share waiata (songs), perform haka and enjoy traditional Māori dance, creating memorable experiences that celebrate te reo Māori.
The tamariki enjoyed watching the performances and shared their own Te Pungawerewere waiata with the older children. As part of this partnership, we regularly visit each other’s learning environments — our children attend their school, and their tamariki visit our centre. These visits help foster a strong sense of connection, belonging and mutual respect between our communities.
The kapa haka group also provides expert teaching and guidance, helping our tamariki learn the meaning behind haka and waiata while developing confidence, coordination and cultural identity. These experiences support important skills such as teamwork, discipline and self-expression in a fun and inclusive environment.
Through this partnership, BestStart Meadowbank strengthens its commitment to bicultural education and builds lasting relationships with the local community. We are grateful for the opportunity to connect, learn and grow together with our wider community.