KiNZ Ōtara was invited to join the KidsCan ECE Food for Kids Programme after meeting the eligibility criteria. Each week, we receive fresh, nutritious ingredients, allowing us to prepare simple and wholesome lunches for our tamariki. Following our Introductory Hui and completion of the Food Safety Training Modules, our team was ready to begin!

Our commitment to reaching the Pā-Harakeke (Gold) level of the Healthy Heart Award with the Heart Foundation remains strong. As we prepare to resubmit our work for our fifth award, we continue to integrate healthy eating and physical activity into every aspect of our environment, ensuring sustainable practices while actively engaging our community. We understand the vital role that nutrition plays in tamariki growth, development, and learning—when they eat well, they thrive.

To meet the award’s requirements, we have made thoughtful adjustments to our menu, such as incorporating more legumes and ensuring we provide at least two servings of wholemeal food each day. Across the week, we offer at least five different vegetables, representing a variety of four colours, and serve fruit three times daily. Our vegetarian meals always include a source of protein, ensuring balanced nutrition for all our tamariki.
Our tamariki are thoroughly enjoying the kai, and their enthusiasm is reflected in empty bowls and bright, happy faces. One of their favorite dishes is Sapasui (Samoan chop suey), and even our youngest tamariki confidently use utensils and tongs while filling their own water glasses.
The positive impact of this initiative extends beyond mealtimes. One mother of a child with autism shared that exposure to the diverse food offerings at KiNZ Ōtara has significantly expanded her son’s eating habits. She now keeps a copy of our menu on her fridge and enjoys recreating some of our recipes at home.
KidsCan has been an incredible support system, and we are truly grateful to be part of this Programme.