Cultural Experiences

Te Matauru Primary offers its Year 7 and 8 intermediate students the chance to experience different cultures through trips to Rarotonga and China. The school's first trip to Rarotonga was in 2023, with a return visit in 2024. This year, students will travel to China for the first time, and later in the year, the school will welcome short-term international students from China.

Rarotonga
These cultural exchange trips strongly align with the Aotearoa New Zealand Histories Curriculum, providing rich opportunities for students to connect with and understand the histories and cultures of other places, particularly in relation to their own. The Rarotonga trips, for example, focus on immersing students in the culture and history of the island, fostering connections with Māori language, culture, and history, and creating a deeper understanding of New Zealand's history. These experiences encourage students to think critically about the past, interpret historical narratives, and develop a broader perspective on the interconnectedness of cultures within the Pacific region. 

Some of the activities our students take part in, in Rarotonga include: 

• Visiting the historical site departure point at Avana Harbour where waka departed to Aotearoa

• Volunteering at the SPCA - walking and taking care of the dogs

• Visiting local schools

• Immersing themselves in the Cook Islands culture

• Lagoon Cruise & Cultural Show

• Attend a Sunday Cook Islands Church Service

• Snorkelling & swimming with local marine life 

China
In 2025 we have 11 Year 8 ākonga heading to China through the Global Youth Ambassador Project (GYAP) Camp. They will begin in Beijing exploring some incredible sights and finish their journey in Hong Kong. Some of the activities will include:

• Attending a traditional Chinese opening ceremony

• Classes with other students from around the world

• Leadership Activities

• Visit the Great Wall, Olympic Park, Pearl Market and the Forbidden City

• Disneyland Hong Kong