Mataura’s holiday programme at The Bunker proved to be a boredom-buster for school pupils on holiday recently. Tamariki aged five to 16 enjoyed a variety of activities from basketball to flax weaving, cooking, games and crafts.

Hokonui rūnanga youth worker, Terry Stott said the programme was a combined effort by Our Way Mataura, Te Iho Rito Social Services, the Gore and District Community Youth Worker Trust, Hokonui Rūnanga and the Gore Social Sector Trial.

Children who took part in the programme had to be invited on the recommendation of their school, Mr Stott said. He added that the programme was designed to benefit children who had working parents, or those who did not have the opportunity to go away for the holidays.

There was no cost for the programme, however a gold coin donation was taken for the use of The Bunker, which was provided free.

Mataura community development co-ordinator, Jo Brand, said the number of places available for the programme was limited to 40 to provide for a one-in-four ratio of adults to children.
However, it was hoped to have more places available for the next holiday programme, she said.

“We can see the demand; we just have to make sure we have enough helpers.’’ Helper Kay Lawton, of Gore, who taught traditional Māori flax weaving, said she loved being involved in the programme.

“I want to pass on our traditions because if we don’t teach them, we will lose them,’’ Mrs Lawton said.

Nā Russell Fredic, The Ensign.

Right, Ashantaye Power enjoying the Mataura Holiday Programme.

Right, Ashantaye Power enjoying the Mataura Holiday Programme.

Krystal Fowler and tamariki making poi.

Krystal Fowler and tamariki making poi.

Shelby-Jay Phillipson enjoying the crafts session.

Shelby-Jay Phillipson enjoying the crafts session.

Teony Pennicott, left and Ace Kawenga take time out to celebrate their birthdays.

Teony Pennicott, left and Ace Kawenga take time out to celebrate their birthdays.

Nanny K (Kay Lawton) working with tamariki.

Nanny K (Kay Lawton) working with tamariki.