Ngahere at Central Kids Charles Kindergarten

At Central Kids Charles, our tikanga is that we want all tamariki to experience the world and environment. Be connected to Papatuānuku and Ranginui through the elements. Creating an understanding of hauora/well being and being playful and adventurous.

Our belief is to ensure all tamariki have an understanding of the environment through matuaranga Māori. Who are the protectors of the elements, what can we harvest and use from nature to help our hauora.

Kawakawa is a rongoa that can help to heal with very similar healing properties as arnica. It can help to heal would, cuts, stomach upset etc.

We identified kawakawa in the ngahere, seeing its heart shaped leaves that adorn the often tall and lanky tree structure.  As we walked we noticed that it is abundant in the ngahere and at the end of the hikoi we collected some to use at kindergarten to make tea and balm.