Ko wai au? Who am I?

Te Tiriti o Waitangi/The Treaty of Waitangi recognises tangata tiriti (people of the treaty) and tangata whenua (people of the land) coming together. Our connection to others links to our connection to the whenua (land) and the natural world around us – establishing our identity and providing a sense of belonging.

In this activity you’ll visualise your own connection to the land by writing your story in pictures and words. You get to build your own island linking what makes you unique to different parts of the whenua, inspired by our beautiful Aotearoa.

Tīmata! Let's get started!

• Who am I? – Use the PDF template provided.
• Mahi toi - Art materials (coloured pencils, pens, markers, etc.)

1. Begin by thinking about a story of yourself. When you see the mountain, think about the following questions: What is something that shapes you? What protects you? What is a memorable moment that made you who you are today? When you have an idea, start using your creativity to design this element. Think about what imagery and colours you use to represent how you see the world.
2. You may also see some water patterns falling from the mountain, ki uta, ki tai. Use this awa (river) to think about the following questions: What sustains you or cheers you up? Is it your favourite food, is it your favourite colour?
3. Time to move on to the next section. You can choose any area you want; it’s your island. As you move from one section to the next, don’t forget to step back and look at the whole picture. How do the different elements come together to make a whole story?
4. Once you’ve completed your island, flip over to the back of the page and write about what you’ve created. What is your story in words? Talk about the different elements that you’ve added to your island. Who are your people? Why did you choose them, and why are they important in your life? What do you love and why? This is your chance to talk about yourself and show your pride in who you are, and where you came from.

• Take a step back and look at your completed story. It’s time to share what you’ve made. Tell your story to your whānau and share stories with them.
• Flip over the page and show your island. What key features stand out? Look at where you have come from, and where you want to go. What do you notice from the details? Are there any colours or themes that stick out? Look at the individual sections and think about how each part is unique and comes together to complete a greater picture. This is the spirit of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, standing together through unity and caring for everyone.

By breaking down the question ‘ko wai au?’ and designing their story, tamariki learn the importance, and benefits of caring for the land and the people who live on it. Understanding oneself, while linking important themes of identity, respect, and connection to the natural world, helps to teach the uniting articles within Te Tiriti o Waitangi and provides an opportunity to reflect on the history of Aotearoa.