‘Ātuitui’ia au ki te Oneone o tōku ‘Ui Tupuna, or “connect me to the soil of my ancestors”.

The 2023 theme for Epetoma o te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani has always been about intentionally deepening the bonds of our people to their language through their familial ties, through the cultural traditions of their enua/vaka, and the songs, dance, and pe’e’s of their family.

Together, these are the pillars that empower Cook Islanders to be proud of their culture, language and identity, ultimately reinforcing this year’s theme of ‘Ātuitui’ia au ki te au peu o tōku kāinga Ipukarea.

Throughout the week at Favona Kindergarten we enjoyed learning alongside tamariki and developing a foundational understanding of the Cook Island language and an appreciation for cultural diversity. To deepen our understanding and support this special celebration we sang and danced to the beautiful Kuki Āirani waiata, and learnt special Ura dance from YouTube (the significant dance from Cook Islands).

Tamariki enjoyed a variety of activities such as making traditional Cook Island patterns and flowers using paint. They were encouraged to be creative and express themselves through their artwork. They also enjoyed making their own ei katu, (head garlands) and dressing up in their beautiful Pasifika attire. Tamariki had so much fun embracing the traditions, values and identity of our Kūki Āirani culture and excited to showcase their talents.

For kaiako, it is important that we acknowledge different cultures and traditions so tamariki remember who they are and where they come from.