A pioneering early childhood learning centre, the first of its kind, has been established with a focus on immersing young children in Māori language and culture from a very early age.

The unique Cook Islands Māori centre, Takitumu Punanga Reo, was founded with the aim of nurturing, revitalising and preserving Māori language and cultural development for children aged six weeks to five years.

The centre was established by the Tamariki Apii Kuki Airani (TAKA) Education Trust founded by Mario Caffery, in collaboration with Pa Marie Ariki.  

Located at Pa Ariki’s Palace in Turangi, Ngatangiia, Takitumu Punanga Reo was blessed and opened last month followed by their first three enrolments, Esther Marama (four years old), Akeina Tairea (23 months old), and Tevaiarii Whakakaua (18 months old).

The centre is led by lead educator Katrina Mataio.

TAKA Trust treasurer Chiavanni Le’Mon, who spearheaded the project, said: “We recognise the vital role of early childhood education in preserving our heritage and fostering a strong sense of identity and belonging in our children.”

“This is not only my dream, but a collective dream for many of us.”

Le’Mon noted that research has consistently shown that early childhood is the most critical period for language acquisition and cultural identity development.

She had been searching for a childcare centre where her baby could be totally immersed in Māori culture and language.

“I can’t teach my kids Māori since I’m still learning but I wanted my baby to have someone who could speak to them in Māori and teach them our culture,” said Le’Mon.

“It’s important to me because it is a connection to my heritage, my people and my identity.”

Le’Mon and TAKA are grateful to all their sponsors including Bank of the Cook Islands (BCI). The bank has been a significant supporter of their mission having made a substantial cash contribution towards the establishment of the childcare centre.

She expressed that this partnership underscored BCI Bank’s commitment to cultural preservation, language sustainability and the well-being of our younger generation.

Le’Mon said BCI’s funds would be used towards the development of educational materials, training for educators and creating a culturally enriching environment.

Jennifer Henry, chief executive officer of BCI stated, “Supporting the sustainability of our language and culture, starting with our babies, is not just an investment in education but an investment in our future.”

Twelve fulltime spots are available at Takitumu Punanga Reo. The lead teachers are Renall Vogel and Marama Denny, lead educator - Katreena Mataio, and support educator - Ruta Ngamata.

Fees for a Monday to Friday week from 7.30am to 4pm is $160, for a full day $32, morning session $20 and for afternoon session from 12pm onwards is $20. Those interested in enrolling their children are encouraged to do so through their website www.punangareo.com. For more information visit the Takitumu Punanga Reo Facebook page.

Other sponsors for the project include Te Rito o Taku Peu Tupuna, Vodafone Cook Islands, Air New Zealand, CITC Group, Raromart and others.