Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a Ngā Taonga Tākaro workshop led by Harko Brown. Harko is dedicated to sharing traditional Māori games, which were historically vital educational tools within tribes. These games were centered around concepts like ako (learning), hauora (well-being), mauri (life force), whakawhanaungatanga (relationships), and environmental connectivity.

During the workshop, we explored games such as matamatarongo, honga, ti-uru, tangatanga, pukao, and patikitiki. Ti-uru, specifically, traditionally used a lightweight piece of Tī Kōuka (cabbage tree) for passing, catching, and scoring.

One memorable aspect of the workshop was weaving a Tui using harakeke. The manu (native bird) is used in the toko-tuia protocol in which tui do the mihimihi or welcome. The tui is now prominently displayed in our hub, serving to welcome students and enhance their well-being while encouraging positive outcomes.

The workshop provided culturally responsive physical activities and games that strengthened my connection with te ao Māori and kaupapa Māori. The next exciting challenge is customising these games to better suit the needs of our students, promoting their overall well-being.