Here at BestStart Kamo Central, we are passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that connect our local curriculum to the world around us. One way we are strengthening this connection is through the arts, using our wider community as a living classroom and source of inspiration.
Recently, our tamariki explored the iconic Hundertwasser Art Centre, a striking landmark in the Whangārei Town Basin. As we began discussing the building — its shapes, colours, and story — the tamariki were immediately intrigued. When we showed them a photo, their curiosity quickly turned into excitement. Many shared that they had seen it before, been near it, or even visited it, creating a strong sense of connection and belonging.
Moments like these highlight how vital our wider community is to learning. When children link new ideas to familiar places, their interest deepens and engagement flourishes. This approach reflects Te Whāriki, providing tamariki with opportunities to explore, contribute, and build a deeper sense of belonging through meaningful relationships with people, places, and things.
Together, we researched other artworks by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, observing patterns, colours, and shapes that stood out to us. As a group, we selected favourite pieces to print and used them as inspiration to create drawings in a similar style.
Through this shared experience, tamariki developed creativity, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how art connects to place. By weaving local landmarks and community strengths into our curriculum, we nurture not only a love of learning but also a lifelong sense of belonging.