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- By Olivia Ng, head teacher at St Andrew’s Chilton Kindergarten in Howick
When a fire recently broke out at McDonald’s Pakuranga, it affected more than just a building – it touched hearts across the community.
Among those most impacted were our tamariki (children), many of whom had fond memories of visiting the restaurant with their whānau (family).
In the days that followed, our kindergarten was filled with conversations as the children shared their thoughts, feelings, and questions about the fire.
Some had seen footage of the blaze on the news, others had passed by the site or heard about it from their parents.
What was clear to us as kaiako (teachers) was the fire had made a strong emotional impression. Many tamariki expressed sadness, worry, and confusion.
For them, McDonald’s wasn’t just a place to eat – it was a space filled with joyful memories, birthday parties, and playground adventures.
We knew it was important to provide the children with time and space to process their emotions.
During mat time, we opened up gentle, age-appropriate conversations.
We listened carefully to their stories and offered reassurance, creating a safe environment where all feelings were welcomed and respected.
To help shift the focus from sadness to strength, we encouraged the children to reflect on what they loved most about McDonald’s.
Their faces lit up as they shared memories of chicken nuggets, fries, ice cream, and most of all, the playground.
“I really miss the playground there,” one child said.
“It makes me sad because I have so many happy memories of going with my mum, dad, and baby brother.”
Another added, “I hope they build a new McDonald’s. Maybe I can ask my dad to help them build it!”
Some tamariki also shared admiration for the firefighters who responded to the blaze.
Their words showed not only curiosity but deep empathy: “Firefighters and police officers are a good team together!” one child said.
“People must have come out of McDonald’s in fear when the building caught fire,” another reflected.
We also took this creative reflection one step further by painting a large collaborative picture of McDonald’s Pakuranga.
Older tamariki led the way with their writing and drawing, while younger children contributed through painting and learning alongside them.
This beautiful shared artwork now forms the front of a special card that we’re sending to the McDonald’s team – a symbol of kindness, teamwork, and aroha (love) from our kindergarten community.
To celebrate the children’s shared memories, we’ll also be enjoying a special morning tea inspired by their favourite McDonald’s foods , chicken nuggets and fries.
While not an everyday treat, this small gesture is a meaningful way for the tamariki to come together, enjoy each other’s company, and reflect on the happy moments they’ve shared.
It’s a time for kindness, connection, and remembrance.
This project has also sparked a growing interest in our local area.
Our tamariki and kaiako have begun wondering about the history of McDonald’s Pakuranga – when it was built, how old it is, and what the surroundings looked like in the past.
These questions have led to rich conversations about how the community has changed over time, and inspired the children to imagine what kind of McDonald’s they’d like to see in the future.
From building design to food ideas, they’re sharing thoughtful and creative visions.
This exploration is evolving into a wider inquiry into place, memory, and the future, showing us how children’s curiosity and compassion can lead to deep, meaningful learning.
This experience reminded us that even during challenging moments, tamariki are capable of great empathy and imagination.
By giving them opportunities to reflect, express, and connect, we’re helping them grow into kind, thoughtful members of the community.
While the fire at McDonald’s was a sad event, it became a meaningful chance for our tamariki to learn about resilience, caring for others, and the power of small acts of kindness.
