Old join young for early celebration

BUSY HANDS: Volunteer Henepaku Matiaha (left) working the play dough, watched by Puni Urutui, 9.

A Masterton kohanga reo has decided to celebrate Waitangi Day early and in-house with a day of sharing between their elders and preschoolers.

Kohanga reo Ngati Hamua had a morning under the shade sails with their children creating fruit artworks and chocolate sprinkled biscuits, while kaumatua joined them in activities.

Helper Marlene Paewai said they wanted to have an early celebration because their children could get "lost" in the big park events on Waitangi Day.

"We wanted something special for our children, the young and the old coming together.

"They wanted to do little activities," she said.

They were joined by parents and elders from across Wairarapa, including one in her nineties.

"They love it, the grandparents. It's great to see that common rapport with them and the children."

She pointed out one of the elders, Nanny Hineri Babbington, a former teacher.

"Look at her, she's still telling us what to do."

The kohanga reo is licensed for 50 children.

"And we're nearly full," said Ms Paewai.