Developing understandings of interdependence is central to personal and social growth. Learning to rely on each other, compliment each other's strengths and form deep friendships is at the heart of this curriculum strand. Learning to live together and contribute to the Tōku Ara community involves daily duties, cooking meals, eating together, laundry, service projects, whakawhanaungatanga and evening debrief. While at Tōku Ara students have no access to the internet or mobile phones, ensuring that their minds are fully present for their Tōku Ara experience.  The principle of simplicity is key in understanding that time spent away from technology and social media is valuable and healthy.