Ten of our students from Outreach School came together to join the students of Tu Kokiri to celebrate Matariki together.

When we arrived, we were welcomed onto the Marae in NZSL and Te Reo. It was a chance to see all three languages of Aotearoa celebrated and recognised together. It was a compelling experience for us all.

Our first activity was to learn about the story of ‘The Seven Fish of Matariki’. We were lucky to have Anthony, a staff member from Tu Kokiri, share the story through sign. The students were engaged and could understand the story through his fantastic storytelling.

Next, we worked together to weave fish from Harakeke to represent the seven fish of Matariki. Students and staff from both schools worked together to learn this skill and produce beautiful fish.

We then learnt about Kowhaiwhai patterns and looked at the different ones around the Marae. The students got to choose a design to colour to create their bookmark. Tu Kokiri and Outreach students worked together to learn four plaits and made a rope to complete their bookmarks to take home.

We finished our day with Anthony telling us another Maori Legend and everyone coming together to sing and sign Pepeha by Six60.

It was a wonderful experience, making connections and learning together. Thank you to Tu Kokiri for all your help in supporting our young learners in Outreach School!