It is with sadness that we said goodbye to our dear friend and Head Teacher of Cascades Kindergarten Nicole Williamson, who is taking time off for the next big journey in her life – motherhood. We incorporated our unique Māori cultural ways of honouring her and thanking her during a special mat time. Nicole was given the korowai as a sign of respect and to honour her. She was welcomed into kindergarten as the guest of honour in a special pōwhiri. The proceedings began by listening to the soulful sounds of the conch shell. Everyone had the opportunity to kōrero on the mat and say how Nicole had touched their hearts.

Along with our tears and laughter, we gifted her a heart containing our fingerprints. Tamariki worked for many weeks on putting their gifts together. It was beautiful to put into practice Māori tikanga for something that was so meaningful to everyone involved. We wish Nicole the very best life has to offer. 

Until we meet again, arohanui!