Ururangi winds blow through West End Kindergarten

Kaiako and tamariki at West End Kindergarten have been learning more about one of the nine stars of matariki - “Ururangi”.

Ururangi which translates to “many winds” in English, encapsulates the idea of change and transition.

In Māori cosmology, the winds are powerful messengers, carrying with them the potential for transformation and renewal. Just as the winds shift and change, so too does life, and the recognition of this continuous cycle is central to the concept of Ururangi.

In Ruma Ruawai, we experience transitions as new tamariki and their whānau are welcomed in and again on their second birthday, when they transition to Ruma Harakeke. Ururangi invites us to embrace change, encouraging us to welcome the shifts and turns that life presents and acknowledge that they are part of a greater cycle.

Kaiako strive to make these transitions as smooth as possible, for both tamariki and their whānau. We plan ahead and invite tamariki to have a number of settling visits, to learn more about each other and for tamaiti to become more familiar within the new space and routines. Kaiako acknowledge that times of change can be challenging and take time to grow a sense of belonging, feeling valued and secure.

Working in partnership with whānau to respect each child’s individual needs. Throughout this time we honour the spirit of adaptability and growth, which the wind embodies.