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footsteps is hosting ‘Kids Day Out’ on 21st June to celebrate the opening of their new drop in centre at Te Pōtiki, 6 Queen Street, Papakura and the start of Matariki - Maori New Year.

The fun community event will include free learning workshops based around the significant icons of Matariki to help children learn about the festival. There will also be a free sausage sizzle, face painting and the chance to win one of two 16 inch children’s bikes and helmets.

The purpose of the new drop in centre, named Te Pōtiki a Poutama (Te Pōtiki for short) meaning ‘the youngest of Poutama/footsteps’, is to offer the people of Papakura a place where parents, children and caregivers can meet for free support, coffee groups, caregiver training and children’s workshops.

footsteps will also be hosting 3 follow up workshops on 28th June, 5th and 12th July after the community launch event on 21st June.  Children, caregivers and parents are invited to take part for free for some further Matariki inspired learning.

footsteps provide free home-based early childhood learning programmes to children 0-5 years and their caregivers, to encourage more pre-school children in Papakura to participate in early childhood education.

Kevin Christie, CEO of footsteps says the drop in centre is one of the ways the organisation can give back to the local community.

 “footsteps works with families throughout Papakura and we are passionate about giving them our support. That is why we have created a space where people can connect with their community and engage in what we do. 

Toni Waetford, footsteps South Auckland Regional Director said, “We are looking forward to having such a great space in the heart of Papakura and what better way to celebrate than put on a fun and educational event for our tamariki, as they are the heart of our organisation. We are excited about inviting the community to join us in the Matariki celebrations and hope they will enjoy all the fun activities we have on offer.”