To celebrate Puanga, the centre has organised a light party, with families who attended the centre either under the previous name Best Start or the current Wonder Kids all invited.
“It is a chance for current and former families to come and celebrate the start of the Māori New Year and Wonder Kids itself.”
The theme of the light party is ‘dress to impress’, Rose says.
“We encourage families to come dressed in their best and enjoy a night of music, dancing and sharing kai. We will also have glowsticks for the children.”
She says the light party isn’t the only way the pupils are celebrating Puanga, with a variety of activities taking place each day.
“We have shared stories, sung waiata and practised raranga [weaving]. We have engaged with the ngā atua [Māori gods] by practising these traditions.”
She says te reo Māori is a key element to the learning activities.
“We want to embrace it in our learning and teach the children about te reo Māori.”
The Details:
What: Wonder Kids Stratford Puanga Light Party
When: Friday, July 7 from 5pm-7pm
Where: Wonder Kids Stratford, 19 Miranda Street, Stratford
Other: Bring a plate
