Wellington’s first Puna Kāinga officially opened in Featherston
Wellington’s first punā kainga – Ngā Manu Kākākura ō Te Ao Turoa – was officially opened on 10 November 2015 at Featherston School in South Wairarapa.
The punā kainga initiative is part of the Early Learning Taskforce’s focus on increasing early childhood education (ECE) participation for priority groups and for those in priority areas.
Punā kainga means ‘springs from home’ and has three main outcomes:
- tamariki are confident learners at home
- tamariki have the self-management skills they need to learn independently and alongside others
- tamariki make a successful transition to school.
For almost all tamariki enrolled at Ngā Manu Kākākura ō Te Ao Turoa, it is their ‘first’ early learning experience outside of home. Te Koha Pirere-Sio, who is 4 years old, is pictured below having his first ever swim in a pool.
(Left to right) Te Koha, Te Rina and Kahurewa had so much fun swimming.
Featherston School considers the punā kainga to be part of the school and includes it in activities like the end-of-year celebration at the local swimming pools.
All parents are involved in their children’s learning experiences and there is a strong emphasis on reflecting Māori identity, language and culture. Tamariki learn their pepeha and take part at whāriki time.
“The punā kainga has made a huge difference for our community,” said Te Rina, Kahungunu Ki Wairarapa ECE Advisor.
A combination of information workshops, excursions within the local Featherston community, and the supportive environment that the punā kainga provides, is having a positive influence on sustaining regular attendance for tamariki enrolled.
For further information, please contact:
Te Rina Kaiwai
Kahungunu Ki Wairarapa ECE Advisor
027 777 2468
Laree Taula
Project Advisor - Early Learning Taskforce
Phone: 4 463 7078
Mobile: 021 992 200