Piha mini school school experiences MOTAT at GEIS

The Museum Of Transport And Technology (MOTAT) was invited to GEIS by Piha Mini School to run a hands-on workshop based on Aotearoa, New Zealand History. 

Originally designed for the term two inquiry topic of 'He aha te mea nui? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata. What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people.’ it had to be rescheduled to late term three. 

The MOTAT Educators brought a number of valuable artefacts, key knowledge, and interesting stories that captured the imagination of the students who were, in turn, up-to-the-task by asking some very thoughtful questions and sharing some key information of their own. From ancient Polynesian tools and games, to WWII replicas, and a jar of 10-year-old Marmite that - for some students - was the best item ever, it was definitely a worthwhile workshop for every Piha class.

An Experience of the 1900’s!

Vintage vibes swirled amidst the atmosphere of the exquisitely assembled room; I felt something bubbling in my stomach, excitement, I instantly presumed. In front of my eyes lay six surfaces, covered with jet black table cloths —on top, holding prestigious artefacts. My eyes narrowed with a squint, as I concentrated on a particular table which held retro relics such as the “thermette” and the “telegraph”. I approached it, expecting particular labels from which I would be able to gain more knowledge, instead finding something more that interested me; The Kiwi Shoe Polish tin. Ever thought about why we are called Kiwi’s? As I absorbed into the backstory, it felt as though I were transported back into the 1900’s; the Motat workshop was certainly an unforgettable experience.

Garima Passi, Room 15.