Tēnā koutou te Whānau Tupu Ngātahi o Aotearoa,
These winter months at centre are often hard going for whānau, when keeping well and warm is not always easy for everyone. A saying that is often shared, (with perhaps a hint of stoicism or through gritted teeth), “there’s no such thing as bad weather just unsuitable clothing”, is certainly easier said than done. We know and appreciate all the extra effort it has taken to keep centre running smoothly in the coldest months, come all weather. Thankfully spring is just around the corner!
Ōtaki Playcentre’s 70th Anniversary
On a particularly sunny July Saturday, Manutaki Maurua, Heather and Hayley had the great pleasure and privilege of attending Ōtaki Playcentre’s 70th Anniversary celebration. Ōtaki has the great distinction of being the home of the treasured Dr Whatarangi Winiata who created the Two House Model of governance adopted by Playcentre. But what was very clear to see was a strong, connected community brought together by the philosophy and values of Playcentre that we all hold dear. With near on 100 in attendance of all ages, representing every decade of centre whānau from the 1960s to today, it was wonderful to hear all the beautiful stories and the impact Playcentre has had on so many lives. It was particularly interesting to hear how Playcentre provided a home away from home and an inclusive space for many mothers who have faced similar struggles and joys regardless of the decade. Many spoke about how the friends and community they found at Playcentre are life long, and their experience transformative. Much fun was had too, with lots of play, favourite waiata sung, an exciting Pirate poem shared, and an impressive 70th birthday cake to add to the delicious shared kai.
Whilst the world has changed around Playcentre over the past 70 years, the need for a place for te whānau tupu ngātahi, families growing together, remains the same. We are invigorated by attending centre celebrations and leave with our cups full and ever more determined that Playcentre will be here for the next 70 years and beyond.
Trustee Board Election Process
Looking towards the much nearer future, the first stage of the 2024 Trustee Board Election Process has been completed and we have passed on the names of the candidates to the Returning Officer. In September the outlines for each candidate and voting papers will be emailed to the whānau member who is listed as the Primary Caregiver at enrolment. This year we have one trustee position for Te Whare Tikanga Māori and one for Tangata Tiriti. This is the opportunity for every whānau to have their say on the leadership of our organisation.
Nā mātou noa nā,
Alice, Andrea, Bes, Fran, Hayley, Heather mātou ko Peta.
Ōtaki Playcentre member and 70th Anniversary event organiser Sue Barrett with Manutaki Maurua, Heather Ruru and Hayley Kirk-Smith.