Today was our Annual Meri Kirihemete party, and the turn-out of whānau and friends certainly demonstrated our strong whanaungatanga-relationships at Central Kids Paraōnui.

We had Mums, Dads, siblings, Grandparents, Great-Grandparents, and Aunties and Uncles all coming together with tamariki and kaiako to enjoy the entertainment and to give and share kai in our welcoming and caring environment (manaakitanga).

Once again our special guests were Sharon Holt, who accompanied by her husband entertained us with six skits based on te reo books Sharon has written.  They were hilarious.  We laughed lots and got involved with actions and movements.  After the show Milia’s Dad, Daniel blessed our kai, and it was time to eat – wow, there was lots of yummy kai.

A siren and flashing lights announced the arrival of Santa in a fire engine, which caused great excitement.  Santa, with the tautoko of his helper Jo, then handed out a present to each of the kindergarten tamariki.  It was a perfect day full of aroha, laughter and sunshine.