How our tamariki celebrated Father's Day
Father’s Day was celebrated in many fun and creative ways across our Barnardos Early Learning centres and home based early learning. Each community came together to honour the important people in the lives of our tamariki, whether it'd be a parent, grandparent or caregiver making memories that were filled with laughter, joy, and connection.
In Wellington Central, dads arrived dressed in wigs, costumes and funny outfits, ready to share their best dad jokes. The highlight was a catwalk where they showed off their moves, with prizes for the best dressed, as well as an afternoon tea and a cake baked by the tamariki.
In Palmerston North, the excitement was just as special as tamariki proudly handed over handmade gifts. Children handed personalised buckets filled with treats, artwork and photos to their dads at pick up time, making them feel valued and appreciated. Just look at their smiles!
In our Pakuranga centre, they offered a culturally diverse celebration, with Indian masala chai, Chinese tea, Japanese green tea, and coffee served alongside egg tarts, scones and Sri Lankan cookies. Tamariki added their own heartfelt touches with beautiful cards created for their dads, making the celebration warm, personal, and reflective of the centre's diversity.
One of our Home Based early learning also joined in the celebrations with a hands-on activity. Tamariki painted clay pots in bright colours before planting sunflower seeds inside. These thoughtful gifts will continue to grow as a symbol of love and care.
Other Barnardos centres across the motu held their own celebrations too, each finding unique ways to acknowledge this special day and the people who matter most to their tamariki.
We know that not every child has a dad at home, and Father’s Day is also about recognising the mums, grandparents, caregivers and wider whānau who provide love, guidance and support. These special people play an important role in the lives of tamariki, and it was wonderful to see them celebrated too.
A heartfelt thank you to all the families who joined us. Your laughter, stories and presence made this Father’s Day one to remember.
