Moananuiākea

On 7th August, our Moananuiākea Pasifika group, along with a couple of Cook Islands students took part in a workshop at Mīharo to celebrate Cook Islands Language Week. The workshop was led by Mama Orametua Teinakore Karena, with the support of Mama Peka Strickland, Mama Pauline Vaevae and many others that helped shape the workshop. The students took part in two activities, making ei katu (traditional flower crowns) and learning crocheting. There was also a music corner where our Papas played instruments such as the guitar and traditional ukulele for students to enjoy. A highlight was just watching everyone talking and laughing with each other, building connections with not just us students but with the teachers and the Cook Island people at the workshop. An additional highlight was coming back to school and showing off our crafted ei katus to our friends and teachers and continuing to wear them. It was a day to remember. Written by Marlina Karena.