The Kaitiaki Medals are designed to recognise and celebrate tamariki who show care, responsibility, and pride in their mahi. Each medal is made from a durable 80mm MDF circle and comes with a changeable lanyard, allowing colours to match the specific kaitiaki role being acknowledged. The kaupapa behind the medals is job association, helping tamariki understand that everyday actions connect to caring for people, places, and the environment. When a tamaiti does a good job, shows consistency, or takes responsibility, they are awarded a medal to wear as a symbol of trust and encouragement. Different kaitiaki roles can be linked to different jobs — such as Papatūānuku for recycling and caring for the whenua, or Rongomātāne for gardening and looking after kai — reinforcing the idea that each role has purpose and meaning. Rather than being a one-off reward, the medal represents an ongoing responsibility, motivating tamariki to continue their positive behaviour while building confidence, pride, and an understanding of kaitiakitanga through everyday practice.
