Mihimania Fox, 3, (left), and Ava Whaitiri, 2, have fun. Photo/Ben Fraser
Mihimania Fox, 3, (left), and Ava Whaitiri, 2, have fun. Photo/Ben Fraser
Hundreds of children in the Waiariki and Tuwharetoa areas have come together in Rotorua to celebrate kohanga reo.
Te Kohanga Reo National Trust kaupapa kaimahi Huia Hahunga said 381 children under 5 gathered at Rotorua's Village Green near the lakefront on Friday to celebrate the total immersion Maori early childhoodeducation centres.
There were 44 kohanga reo from the two regions at the "party", which included fun games, Mr Whippy, a merry-go-round, food, cake, performances and a wearable arts display.
Ms Hahunga said although children never needed a reason to party, the trust decided it was time it celebrated the success of kohanga reo.
Alana Baker and Waiheke Baker, 1, enjoy the party. Photo/Ben Fraser
"We have had balls etc for our elders but this is the first time we have done this for our kids and I don't think it's going to be the last time looking at all the happy children."
Ms Hahunga said the children were given goodie bags with Easter eggs, bubbles and the under 2s were each given a small greenstone necklace, donated by Ralph Hamon from the Whakarewarewa Village.
"He gave us 110 pieces of greenstone on the string for the children as a koha. It was such a kind gesture."
Te Rangimarie Kohunga Reo members celebrate. Photo/Ben Fraser
She said one of the highlights for the children was a poi demonstration by Wikitoria Tuhakaraina-Simon, who had the foresight to do her demonstration to the theme song from the Disney movie Moana, How Far I'll Go.
"The children from Te Koutu Kura Kaupapa told us they were on their lunch break and could see all the balloons going into the air. It was so fabulous."
Kohanga reo have come a long way since they were established in 1982 and there are now more than 460 centres throughout New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom.
Ms Hahunga said kohanga reo were special for Maori because they were about their identity.
"We are the beginning for our language. It's about knowing who you are and where you are going and where you are from. Our children are just so special."
It's always a good time to dress up, especially when celebrating kohanga reo. Photo/Ben Fraser
Kohanga reo First kohanga reo established in April 1982, called Pukeatua in Wainuiomata Kohanga reo were established following concerns from Maori to save te reo There are now more than 460 nationwide catering to more than 9000 children There are several kohanga reo in Australia and the United Kingdom
