At Manu Kindergarten, a special part of our programme involves taking tamariki into nearby ngahere (forest). We are fortunate to be located within walking distance of many of these beautiful areas connected to the Huatoki Domain. Here, with the help of parent helpers, tamariki are free to explore te taiao (the natural world), connecting with the rhythms of nature. These experiences nurture a deep sense of place and belonging, while also building confidence in the outdoors.

Our head teacher, Scott, brings a strong interest in ecology to this work. He supports tamariki to learn the names of native trees and plants, as well as the insects, birds, and other creatures that live in the forest. Tamariki are also taught about problem plants, such as invasive weeds, and how these can affect forest health. Often our forest visits include collecting native seeds to sow, helping us grow our own native plants back at kindergarten. We foster kaitiakitanga — guardianship and care for the environment — by involving tamariki in these small but meaningful actions, which help them learn about caring for the world around them.

We also build a relationship with the local awa (river), the Huatoki. By spending time with the river and observing its changes, tamariki deepen their connection to place and begin to understand their role in caring for it.

Traditionally, our forest programme took place in a part of the Huatoki Domain further from kindergarten. While it offered a beautiful setting, it required tamariki to be dropped off by whānau, which became challenging if the weather changed unexpectedly and we needed to return to kindergarten. We are now in the process of strengthening relationships with local landowners and focusing on forest areas within walking distance of the kindergarten. This allows us to bring the forest into our weekly rhythm more often, through shorter, more manageable excursions that remain deeply connected to our values of place, care, and learning in nature.