Tikanga at Playcentre

Overview

Tikanga in Playcentre guides how we care for people, places and resources in ways that uphold Māori values such as manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and kaitiakitanga. Understanding tapu, sacred and noa, not sacred, helps us to recognise what needs special care and protection and to provide balance through cleanliness, sharing of kai and caring for our environment. This aligns with Playcentre health and safety practices, creating a safe, respectful environment where tamariki and whānau can thrive.

We have regard to tikanga by connecting and building relationships with local hapū and iwi and observing and respecting their customs, values and guidance.

Using food in play

Food should not be used for play, this includes rice, jelly, pasta etc. However, flour and cornflour may be used for making playdough and fingerpaint, as the end product is for learning and play. We respect tikanga Māori and are mindful of others by taking care not to waste food.

At morning teatime, ensure hands are washed and dried and a karakia is performed. Ideally, a designated table would be used for serving kai for morning tea. If this is not possible due to space limitations it is recommended that eating and play activities should be kept separate and do not take place at the same table. Separating these activites helps maintain clear boundaries with regard to tapu and noa.

Respect for the body

Te tapu o te tinana

In te ao Māori all things are understood through the balance of tapu and noa. The human body, especially the head, is regarded as highly tapu. A woman’s ability to bear children is recognised as a special and sacred attribute and should be treaed with care and respect.

Gestures such as ruffling a child’s hair is often seen as affectionate in Pākehā culture, however tikanga Māori recognises the head as tapu and touching it is avoided.
Pillows are resting places for the head and should be used for that purpose only. Pillows are for laying the head on; cushions are for sitting on.
Traditionally in Māori culture, women and girls are encouraged to sit with discretion and do not step over other people’s bodies or legs. Other people should be sensitive towards this and move their legs if they are in the way. Some games, such as leapfrog, may be uncomfortable or offensive for some people. It is also important to be aware that games involving physical contact may not be appropriate for everyone.

Other points to remember

Paints need to be stored separately from cups.
Food utensils should only be used for food.
Tea towels should not be draped over shoulders.
The bench where food is prepared should not be used for any other purpose.
The sink for washing dishes should not be used for any other purpose.
Shoes should be removed before entering some spaces, such as a wharenui.
Avoid sitting on tēpū – tables, and don’t leave bags or hats on tables that are used for kai.
Ensure manuhiri visitors eat first.

Whānau Tupu Ngātahi: Families Growing Together

Report to the New Zealand Playcentre Federation from the Working Party on Cultural Issues.
Published by the New Zealand Playcentre Federation, Auckland, 1990

Karakia - Incantations/prayers

Karakia are incantations often said to avert trouble or to obtain benefit. There are many different types of karakia and at Playcentre, you can become familiar with these before meetings, before kai, before cutting harakeke, start or close your daily session or leading mihi whakatau.

Ngā Karakia Timatanga – Opening Incantations

Karakia Timatanga Whakataka Te hau – Download pdf

Karakia Timatanga Tukua te Wairua – Download pdf

Karakia Timatanga kia hora te Marino – Download pdf

Karakia Timatanga – Download pdf

Ngā Karakia Whakamutunga – Closing Incantations

Karakia Whakamutunga Pou Hihiri – Download pdf

Karakia Whakamutunga kia tau te Rangimarie – Download pdf

Karakia Whakamutunga – Download pdf

Karakia Kai – Food Blessings

Karakia Kai Whakapaingia ēnei kai – Download pdf

Karakia Kai o ngā Atua Māori – Download pdf