Strengthening reo Māori, peu Māori, and piri'anga through early childhood connection and community support

Te Pu’ara Api’i Pōtiki recently hosted a cultural exchange in Rarotonga to welcome Te Kōhanga Reo o Kākāriki, marking their first visit to the island. The event was held under the hosting of Pa Ariki, the initiative was organised by Te Pu’ara Api’i Pōtiki, led by trustees Marama Denny and Chiavanni Le’Mon.

Te Pu’ara Api’i Pōtiki operates under its own legal structure, since 2 September 2025. The trust is governed by four trustees: Chiavanni Le’Mon, Maeva-Leigh Herman, Marama Denny, and Gwynalyn Ratumu.

This visit reflects a international support and relationship with Te Kōhanga Reo o Kākāriki, organised by Rehia Hanara who travelled to Rarotonga to support the development of total immersion Māori early childhood education in the Cook Islands. This work is significant, as it represents a model not yet established within the local context.

The day was designed as a cultural exchange centred on the tamariki. Activities supported connection and shared learning, including pareu painting for older toddlers, drumming sessions for younger babies, and open space for play.

The programme concluded at 12.00pm with an akako’uko’u session. This included reflection, exchange of traditional and local gifts, and closing with a pure. The schedule aligned with the children’s routine, ensuring rest at their usual time of 1.00pm.

Food reflected the Cook Islands culture of the centre. Catering included traditional kai Māori such as Tipou Kuru, Raiti, Meika, Akari, Venevene Pāma, e te tonati. This approach reinforced learning grounded in reo Māori, peu Māori, and piri'anga.

Attendance grew from an expected small group to approximately 150 people, including visiting guests and members of the local community who came to support the 'Āriki'anga Manu'iri ki Te Kōhanga Reo o Kākāriki. The event remained focused on its purpose, with cultural leadership from Marama Denny and coordination alongside Pa Ariki.

The community played a central role in supporting the centre’s 7 babies, 2 pūapi‘i, and 4 trustees. This reflects strong collective commitment to the kaupapa.

We acknowledge and thank the following for their support:
Renall Vogel – Arataki
Korero o te Orau – Atui’anga ki te Tango – Teina and Jackie Rongo
Titikaveka College Drummers – Principal Raewyn Morgan
Beauman Morgan – Titikaveka College and Photographer
Te Ipukarea Society – Alanna Smith and Akeina Tairea
Rangi Mitaera – Catering
Mez Tauu Puia – Catering Support
Ministry of Cultural Development – Emile Kairua
Kaka Ama and Bernard’s Lawns and Maintenance
Our pūapi‘i – Enuakura Maruaao and Maara Williams

Te Pu’ara Api’i Pōtiki continues as the only total immersion Māori childcare centre in Rarotonga, operating with limited resources and strong community support to advance language and cultural learning.