Our trip to Matariki!

Our much anticipated trip to the Matariki Wharenui started with a powhiri welcome at the gate. Karen was our Kaikaranga and Matilda's dad was our Whaikorero.  Before entering the whare we took off our shoes and then sat on a bean bag listening intently as the Tangata whenua gave us a mihi followed by a Waiata.  We replied and the children sung Mahunga Pakihiwi with actions.

We were then invited to sit down together for Kai/food.

There was even a pond with large goldfish swimming around.

After we were full to the brim we went for a walk in the Ngahere/bush.  

We walked down the path, through the bush, past the streams and back up the path to the Museum of Taonga/treasures.  The museum contained shells, stones, photographs, dolls and other artifacts.

What a lovely experience for us all.  

 If you looked carefully you may have seen the kiwi hiding behind the tree. 

 Back inside the Wharenui we listened to a story about Matariki and learnt a new waiata. 

We were gifted with a beautiful sparkly star upon our departure.

  Thank you to Karen and Taini and all the other lovely helpers and parents who made our day so special.