Partnering with SportHub, Sport Waitākere recently engaged 80+ West Auckland students in dragon dancing, waist drumming, and tai chi fan. These sessions were designed to build pride and respect for diversity, creating an inclusive environment where every child - regardless of ability - could connect and shine.
Over winter, more than 80 tamariki from West Auckland stepped out of the classroom and into a new kind of lesson – one filled with movement, rhythm, and culture.
From June to August, Sport Waitākere partnered with SportHub to deliver eight Cultural Day sessions at Arahoe, New Windsor, Summerland and New Lynn Schools.
The initiative aimed to promote cultural pride and identity, encourage creativity and strengthen understanding and respect for diversity. Through hands-on experience with traditional activities like dragon dance, waist drumming and tai chi fan, tamariki were able to connect and immerse themselves with culture.
For many students, it was their very first time experiencing these cultural traditions, making for a particularly memorable learning opportunity. Linda Cai, Asian Outcomes Lead at Sport Waitākere, explains the vision behind the programme.
“We are working towards creating an inclusive and culturally rich environment in our schools. By engaging students in these activities, we aim to build pride in cultural heritage, enhance creativity and encourage deeper respect for diversity. When tamariki feel their culture is valued, it strengthens their sense of belonging and confidence.”
The programme also had a powerful impact on the schools and teachers. Julie, a teacher from one of the participating schools, commented: “It was really nice to see some of our students looking engaged and happy who don’t usually participate. The teachers were all so positive and inclusive.”
For Linda, one particular moment left a lasting impression. “One of the children, who has autism, was so engaged and joyful throughout the activities. Like every other child there he was smiling, sweating, and with bright, shining eyes full of excitement. It reminded me why inclusive activities matter so much. I feel incredibly honoured to be part of something that creates space for every child to participate, to connect and to shine.”
Beyond the individual impact, programmes like this build stronger, more harmonious school communities. They help children see the value in diversity, support teachers to create inclusive classrooms and encourage families to feel their cultural identities are recognised and respected.
Linda believes this is only the beginning.
“We want to keep creating spaces where tamariki can celebrate who they are, while also opening doors to explore and appreciate other cultures. Every time we do, we see the spark it creates – that moment of connection, joy and belonging. Those are the experiences that stay with children, shaping the way they see themselves and others,” concludes Linda.
