Growing Kaitiaki at Hornby Pasifika Early Learning Centre
Tamariki at our Hornby Pasifika Early Learning Centre have been proudly stepping into the role of kaitiaki (guardians) as they care for their newly established māra kai (garden). This special space gives tamariki the opportunity to nurture and protect their natural learning environment while developing a deep sense of responsibility for the kai (food) they are growing.
The idea for the māra kai began as part of our journey toward the Healthy Hearts Award with the Heart Foundation. As one of the goals for the year, Monique Tongia, Early Learning Centre Educator at Hornby Pasifika, chose to focus on creating opportunities for tamariki to grow and enjoy fresh vegetables. There was just one challenge. The centre did not yet have a space where tamariki could easily see, access and be part of the growing process.
Monique and Se'e, our Hornby Pasifika Centre Manager, began exploring ideas and soon landed on a creative solution. A large black chalkboard already in the playground could be transformed into something new. Over the holiday break, with the help of whānau, the chalkboard was carefully repurposed into a garden box, ready to become the foundation of our māra kai.
When it came time to fill the garden boxes, tamariki were eager to get involved. Soil was gathered from existing planter boxes at the front of the centre, and little hands were quick to help scoop, pour and pat it down. Their enthusiasm was contagious as they worked together to prepare the space for planting.
Working in the garden has created many rich learning moments. Tamariki are learning that plants are taonga (treasure) gifted to us by Papatūānuku. Through daily conversations, kaiako remind them that caring for our plants means watering them, giving them the right soil and ensuring they have what they need to thrive. These simple acts of care help tamariki understand that when we look after our environment, it provides nourishing kai that keeps our bodies strong and healthy.
This project has also been a beautiful expression of whakawhanaungatanga. We are incredibly grateful for the generous support from Mitre10 Hornby, Oderings Yaldhurst, Mega Air Hornby, Garden Box and Tui Garden. Their contributions of materials and seeds have helped bring our māra kai to life and strengthened our connections within the local community.
With many more seeds ready to be planted, the learning continues. Our hope is that by Matariki, tamariki will be able to harvest kai from their very own māra kai and contribute it toward a shared celebration. To gather and share food grown with their own hands would be a powerful way to honour the season and reflect on the journey of growth, patience and care.
Our māra kai is more than just a garden. It is a space where tamariki learn responsibility, respect for Papatūānuku and the joy that comes from nurturing something over time. We look forward to watching both our plants and our young kaitiaki continue to flourish.
