Connecting with mahi toi of our tūpuna

Tamariki, kaiako and whānau were welcomed outside Te Ana Ngaī Tahu Rock Art Centre by Donna McPherson, and were lead inside to a space full of taonga (treasures) that we could all explore.

 

There were opportunities to connect with and learn about some Ngaī Tahu pūrākau (stories); to discover aspects of the natural environment which assisted Māori to create their rock art; and to engage with this learning in an interactive way.

 

Many of the tamariki enjoyed “the cave” where rock art images were projected onto the ceiling, and the table where crayon rubbings of rock art designs could be created.

 

We learned about the landscape of South Canterbury and beyond; about some of the manu (birds) that used to be found here (such as Haast Eagles and Moa); and how kai was traditionally gathered and stored.

 

A highly recommended visit for those in the district.