Tamariki, community, and planting! A powerful way to acknowledge the rising of the Matariki cluster in our skies. Starting off with a hikoi to the Hall in typical rural style, we had to navigate the droving of a few hundred head of cattle on the road!

School Principal Jo Larsen opened the occasion with a reminder of the significance of the Matariki celebrations; a time to reflect on the previous year, mourn, and remember those no longer with us and look ahead to the coming year. After a karakia, the tamariki and community including the guests from the planting team from Logic Forest Solutions, we tackled the task of planting a variety of Harakeke Flax around the driveway to both secure the edges and also enhance the food source for our birds.

Afterwards, we headed back to school. The children sang a waiata, which the planting crew responded with a Fijian waiata. After karakia mo te kai (grace), we enjoyed a well-earned cuppa and shared kai.

Many thanks to all those who were able to join in this lovely morning. Happy Matariki whanau!