Year 7 News

Mahika Kai unit well underway

A Journey into Mahika Kai: Our Students Explore Ōtākou Ecosystems

Our current Mahika Kai unit proved to be an immersive and hands-on learning experience for our students, connecting them with the rich cultural and natural heritage of our local environment. The highlight of the unit so far has been a trip to the Marine Science Centre, where students delved into the science of food webs and ecosystems. They learned about the vital role each organism plays in maintaining the balance of our marine environment and gained a deeper appreciation for the local food gathering traditions in Ōtākou. There was excitement as well as reservations as students interacted with the touch tanks, getting a chance to feel cushion starfish, see pāua and crabs up close, and examine the texture of kelp, bringing their classroom learning to life.

Beyond the Marine Science Centre, students participated in a variety of engaging, practical activities. They tried their hands at muka making, transforming harakeke (flax) into strong fibres, a traditional skill with deep cultural significance. The backyard bass casting lessons provided a fun introduction to fishing techniques. At the same time, the fishhook design and iteration class challenged their creativity and problem-solving skills as they worked to create effective and functional designs. These hands-on experiences not only reinforced their understanding of the Mahika Kai concept but also fostered a sense of connection to the natural world and the mātauranka (knowledge) associated with it.