Tiaki Early Learning Centre (ELC) will host the Children’s Holi – Festival of Colours on Sunday, 9 March 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon, bringing families together for a day of vibrant festivities.
The centre’s spacious grassed area, secure fencing, and access to water provide the ideal setting for safe and exciting colour play for tamariki.
The event will begin at 10:00 AM with a karakia and Māori welcome, reflecting Tiaki ELC’s commitment to inclusivity. Following this, children from Rotorua Hindi School and Hindu Scripture classes will recite Vedic mantras and shlokas, honouring the spiritual essence of the occasion.
Families will have the chance to explore Tiaki ELC’s play area, orchard, vegetable garden, and learning spaces, connect with the teaching team, and meet other attendees. The highlight of the event—colour play—will start at 10:45 AM, filling the space with bright hues and laughter.
Hosting the event is Tāmati Gerald Coffey, well-known broadcaster, politician, and former Member of Parliament. A recognisable presence from shows like What Now, Breakfast, and New Zealand’s Got Talent, Coffey is a valued friend of Tiaki ELC and a strong advocate for community engagement.
Tamariki and their whānau from early childhood centres and primary schools in Owhata and Lynmore are invited, along with past students, graduates, and their families, to experience the festival together.
Photo: Supplied
Holi, known as the Festival of Colours, represents joy, unity, and the arrival of spring. At Tiaki ELC, children will experience safe, non-toxic colour play, lively music, and dance, creating an interactive cultural experience tailored 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.”
Alongside the colour festivities, families can enjoy traditional Indian music, dance performances, and interactive activities, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.
“At Tiaki, we believe in nurturing globally aware children who respect and appreciate different cultures,” said Abigail Moore, 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 welcomes everyone to take part in this memorable event, celebrating culture, community, and joy through laughter, music, and vibrant splashes of colour.
Prof Guna Magesan
President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
021 0345621
hindu.nz@gmail.com