Our centre is enriched through active engagement with Māori cultural practices, which provide meaningful learning opportunities for our tamariki.

The tamariki participated in singing Māori waiata and crafting moana and koru hei whakapaipai using pāreti tote (salt dough). Their consistent involvement in singing and dancing to waiata fostered not only language development but also embodied cultural expression, strengthening their identity and connection to te reo Māori.

Through the lens of kowhiti whakape—the process of discovery and exploration—the tamariki were encouraged to engage creatively and critically with cultural materials. This exploratory learning supported their cognitive development, fine motor skills through mahi toi (artwork), and enhanced their understanding of the symbolism within Māori art and reo.

A significant highlight was the involvement of a whānau member who visited to lead a wāhi noho (mat time) session. She sang waiata with the tamariki and shared insights into the meanings behind the waiata, deepening their comprehension and respect for te reo Māori me ngā tikanga Māori.

This collaborative engagement with whānau was invaluable, as it reinforced the tamariki’s learning by connecting kāinga (home) and kura (educational environment), fostering a holistic and culturally responsive learning experience. Thank you to our whānau for sharing their cultural values and teaching us about te reo Māori.

Collaboration with whānau is essential in promoting authentic cultural understanding and supporting tamariki identity development. Whānau input and participation enrich the learning context, validate mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge), and strengthen the partnership between kaiako (educators) and whānau, ultimately contributing to improved educational outcomes for tamariki. Honouring the land and culture where we live is very important.

“Mā tōu rourou, mā tōku rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.” (With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.) Together with this year’s Māori Language Week theme, “Ake ake ake” (Forever and ever), this whakataukī highlights the enduring importance of collective effort and the continual nurturing of te reo Māori and tikanga across generations. It reminds us that through ongoing collaboration between whānau and kaiako, the language and culture will flourish ake ake ake, forever and always.

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