Try New Experiences at Children’s Fun Day

A Children’s Fun Day in Marfell Park will be encouraging families to try something new.

“The theme is ‘New Experiences’, and we’ll be giving children and parents ideas about alternative food options and new activities they can try,” says NPDC Manager Community Development Bry Kopu.

“The entire day is about encouraging families to be active and have fun together. The Children’s Fun Day is a great chance for family members to spend time with each other and give something new a try.”

The Sunday 2 March event will also host the launch of Manaaki Oranga’s Balance Me project, which will give parents and caregivers information and encouragement on how to improve their family’s nutrition.

Says Maanaki Oranga Project Coordinator Jean Hikaka: “Balance Me is a parent training package that aims to set up good eating habits and lifestyles for life, and doing it in a positive way that involves the entire whanau.

“This is an ongoing programme covering nutrition, cooking, healthy communities, budget and food behaviours,” she says.

Manaaki Oranga has developed Balance Me in collaboration with the three Taranaki PHOs – Pinnacle Taranaki, Te Tihi Hauora o Taranaki and Hauora Taranaki – plus many other community organisations.

The Children’s Fun Day will run from 11am to 3pm on 2 March at the Cook St end of Marfell Park. The entertainment programme includes displays from gymnasts, rock ’n rollers and martial artists.

Adults and children will be encouraged to take part in a series of activities ranging from an obstacle course to gumboot throwing.

“We’re also encouraging children and whanau to enter a competition with a rap, song or poem that has a healthy eating message,” says Ms Kopu.