Our Contribution to our Community: Ruapotaka Marae

On Thursday 16th March 2017, our apii were invited to participate in a community art event held at Glen Innes Ruapotaka Marae. 

On arrival we were welcomed in by Whaea Ann and Nana Jenny. We were also greeted with these stunning art panels.

Nana Jenny kindly went on to explain the meaning and the history behind the creation of the 'contemporary korowai'.Whaea graciously Ann shared her knowledge about the materials used for making original korowai. Kristen's nana was interested in learning about the use of kiwi feathers, and other concepts of Maori culture.

Our tamariki and their parents/whanau got to choose their coloured whare (houses), and place them to be weaved onto the korowai.

 

After our whare were placed onto the panels, we went onto to interpret our experience onto paper. Here, our tamariki created their own pieces of artwork by drawing their thoughts and ideas.

Utukura with his mum Iva, and his sister

Hemi and his mum Esther

 Sinapasi and mum Kayla

Teacher Rosie, Norman and mum Mataora, Veronica, Leniah and aunty Ngame, Iris and cousin Tyra share an art moment on the mat.

Meitaki maata to our friends at Ruapotaka Marae, and our apii whanau for coming together to provide a rich and meaningful learning experience for all involved, particularly our tamariki.

Te Whariki: 'Family & Community' - The wider world of family & community is an integral part of the early childhood curriculum.

'Relationships' - Children learn through responsive and reciprocal relationships with people, places and things.

Link: https://www.facebook.com/Ruapotakamarae