Tiaki Early Learning Centre (ELC) is delighted to announce a vibrant Children’s Holi – Festival of Colours on Sunday, 9 March 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.
The Tiaki ELC site has been selected as the venue for the Children’s Holi Festival due to its spacious grassed area, access to water for safe colour play, and secure fencing, ensuring a fun and safe environment for tamariki.
A Celebration of Culture and Community
The event will commence at 10:00 AM with a karakia and Māori welcome, reflecting the centre’s commitment to cultural inclusivity. This will be followed by Vedic mantras and shlokas recited by children from the Rotorua Hindi School and Hindu Scripture classes. Until 10:45 AM, parents, families, and friends will have the opportunity to connect with new families, explore Tiaki ELC’s facilities—including the children’s play area, orchard, vegetable garden, and learning spaces—meet the teaching team, and gain insights into the centre’s learning philosophy. The celebration will continue with Children’s Holi – Festival of Colours, running from 10:45 AM to 12:00 noon.
Tāmati Gerald Coffey, a well-known New Zealand broadcaster, politician, and former Member of Parliament, will serve as the Master of Ceremonies. Coffey, a familiar face from television programmes such as What Now, Breakfast, and New Zealand’s Got Talent, is a valued friend of Tiaki ELC and a strong advocate for community engagement.
Families can expect a kaleidoscope of colours as Tiaki ELC transforms into a hub of joy, unity, and cultural celebration. Tamariki and their whanau from the Early childhood centres and primary schools in and around Owhata and Lynmore are being invited, offering children a first-hand experience of this cherished festival. Past students and graduates of Tiaki ELC, along with their whānau, are also warmly welcomed to join the festivities.
The Spirit of Holi at Tiaki ELC
Holi, often called the Festival of Colours, symbolizes joy, unity, and the arrival of spring. At Tiaki Early Learning Centre, the celebration will include child-friendly, non-toxic colour play, music, and dance, creating an engaging cultural experience for young learners.
“Celebrating Holi at Tiaki allows our tamariki to experience the joy of cultural diversity, embrace inclusion, and learn through play,” said Tāmati Coffey. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for our children to connect with different traditions in a way that is both fun and educational.”
In addition to colour play, the event will feature traditional Indian music, dance performances, and interactive activities designed to foster a sense of unity and belonging. Parents, caregivers, and community members are encouraged to join the celebration and share in the joyous spirit of Holi.
“At Tiaki, we believe in nurturing globally aware children who respect and appreciate different cultures,” said Abigail Moore, one of the Kaiako at Tiaki ELC. “Holi is a beautiful way to reinforce values of love, friendship, and happiness among our young learners.”
Tiaki Early Learning Centre invites everyone to be part of this special occasion, creating cherished memories through laughter, music, and, of course, vibrant splashes of colour!
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
Prof Guna Magesan
President, Hindu Council of
New Zealand
021 0345621
hindu.nz@gmail.com
