GIVE YOUR CHILDREN THE BEST START TO THEIR EDUCATION

“Te Manu Taratahi”

“Te Manu Taratahi” symbolises the journey of becoming life-ready and the importance of hauora within our Kids Rock whānau.

Our Kids Rock whanau includes the Rangatira (Managers & Leaders), Kaiwhakahaere (Administrator), Kaiako (Teachers), Kai tunu Kai (Cook), Tamariki (Children) and their Whānau (Family).

Te Manu Taratahi is one of many traditional Mãori Manutukuku (Kite), it is known for its triangu- lar shape and a projecting plume at the top point, known as the Taratahi. The frame is made using 3 kãkaho (culms) collected from toetoe grass, these are tied together with the Taratahi connect- ing the outer frame to the top point. A rod known as the tangotango, it is then tied across the lower ends of the kãkaho finishing the outer structure and providing a base of strength and support. The leaves of a raupo plant are laced horizontally through the three kãkaho using muka (fine harakeke strands). Lastly, a number of feathered trails are then attached to the bottom edge of our tangotango.

Taratahi — Governance and Management—The Taratahi is the head of Te Manu Taratahi, it orchestrates the ascending flight, if the Taratahi is weak the direction of flight is obscured.

Kãkaho/Toetoe — Kaiako, Tamariki and Whanau— These are the main components to “Te Manu Taratahi”, if all Kãkaho are healthy, nurtured and strong the journey to being life-ready will prosper and will continue to ascend.

Tangotango – Environment—The Tangotango supports the Kãkaho and ensures Te Manu Taratahi is stable during flight. If the Tangotango is damaged the journey will be difficult and full of obstacles.