Once again, our tamariki gathered together over the Christmas holidays at Ngāti Moki Marae for cultural activities, fun and games and of course, kai.
We were joined by students from the University of Canterbury College of Education. The tamariki, rangatahi, pakeke and some of our kaumātua, welcomed the students onto the marae with a mihi whakatau; and our facilitator, Liz Brown, explained the activities for the day – painting a mural, planting rupia and historical/information activities.
The tamariki and university students broke into three groups and started the activities for the day. Most focused on painting the mural, with groups taking turns to develop it through the necessary stages. The final product is awesome.
Groups also got to plant the rupia seedlings – rupia is a macrophyte that is currently being cultivated at Taumutu by NIWA staff and it is hoped that when the plants are established in Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere, they will improve the water quality of our lake.
Tamariki also watched the DVD about the macrophyte cultivation at Taumutu, recorded by Māori Television last year. Some of our tamariki and kaumātua were involved in the project and were shown in the documentary. This was followed by a walk to the Hone Wetere church and of course the beach. Rose Brown shared her extensive knowledge of the area – ngā mihi ki a koe.
The University students also joined our tamariki in games of touch – or a version of touch – which they all enjoyed.
It was great having them with us and show them how we interact and discuss what is important to our tamariki about education. We know the students got a lot out of the day that they can use in their future studies/work as teachers.
Fine looking Moki tamariki lining up for kai.
Moki tamariki and University of Canterbury students start on mural.
Ngā whānau with the finished mural.