Kidsfirst Waiata – Tamariki Tuatahi

Kidsfirst's very own waiata debuted at the staff meeting at the end of April and was a highlight of the AGM. The waiata is designed to be delivered and sung in each kindergarten and at official events.

“There were a lot of waiata being used," says Kidsfirst Pouhere Ako Jasmin Ngawai, "I think having something that is specific to us is important."

“The idea is that these would be our ‘go to’ words. We can learn them, and get really comfortable with one set, and then we don't need to have the words up, on a slideshow, for example."

The waiata reflects the bicultural vision of Kidsfirst, and how the organisation's values are grounded in an appreciation of te ao Māori.

“We – kaiako, kaimahi, whānau – are the careful gardeners who nurture the seed – our tamariki,” says Jasmin, “our mahi ensures a bountiful harvest, which, in turn, ensures a healthy community.”

The lyrics are adaptable so that Central Otago and West Coast kindergartens can customise them and promote a sense of place.

The chair of the Ngāi Tūāhuriri Education Committee, Lynne Te Aika (MNZM), helped out with the words to the waiata. A member of the NZ Order of Merit for Services to Māori Language Education, Lynne has extensive knowledge of Te Whāriki, and the New Zealand education system as it relates to bicultural practice.

Here is a printable version of the lyrics to 'Tamariki Tuatahi' and their English translation:

Read Issue 10 stories