MAKE A MATARIKI KITE

This Matariki paper kite is fun to make and play for kids of all ages. It is simple to create, and easy to fly, making it suitable even for young children.

Learn how to make a simple Matariki kite >>
View Matariki paper kite resource on TPT >>

MAKE A MATARIKI STAR FROM HARAKEKE

This harakeke star is lovely to make at Matariki – made out of NZ flax, these stars are simple to make and can be hung as a mobile, placed on a nature table, a window or Matariki wall display; or scatter on the table around a hakari (feast).

As Harakeke is a firmer material to work with, young children could also make with paper strips which fold and hold easier, which could then be glued to a background to display.

Be sure to learn about safe harvesting and tikanga including karakia for Harakeke.

Learn how to weave a Matariki star from harakeke / flax >>
View Matariki Harakeke / flax star instructions on TPT >>

MATARIKI ACTIVITY BOOKLET

This 66 page bundle of Matariki craft activities is designed for tamariki, their whānau and kaiako (teachers); making it a great resource in a classroom or homeschool setting.

This downloadable, printable Matariki Activity Booklet includes:
– Craft activities
– Kai recipies
– Traditional Maori games
– Waiata
– Pepeha template
– Matariki colouring pages
– Matariki wall displays.

View Matariki Activity Book / printable resource >>

MAKE MATARIKI CANDLES

We often roll these candles together as a family. It is a lovely activity to roll your candles as you celebrate special times of the year, especially during Matariki, a mindful act, making and remembering loved ones who have passed.
View rolled beeswax candle kit >>

MAKE A MATARIKI WHETU

This harakeke whetu has 8 points and is great for older children and adults to learn to make. This can also be made out of paper, but there is magic in working with harakeke / nz flax at Matariki time.

This whetu is part of the Harakeke Nature Journal booklet which includes information about safe harvesting and tikanga including karakia for Harakeke.

View Harakeke Nature Journal resource >>

MAKE MAORI FRY BREAD

Parāoa Parai / Fry Bread is a heart nourishing treat. that remains in the memories of those who eat it. It can be served with a hearty soup, boil up, hangi, roast dinner, or even drizzled with golden syrup. Children can help measure out the flour, and cut the dough, but perhaps not the mixing at it requires very minimal kneading with aim to form a sticky dough and keep the soft fluffy texture. You can find the recipe online here, or download a printable copy to frame or keep in your Matariki celebration kete or cookbook.

View Fry bread recipe on TPT >>

MAKE A SAND ART LIGHT BOX

A sand light box is simple to make, using a large plastic container with clear or white lid, place a torch inside and add some sand to the top, and get creative in a darkened out room. Children can create drawings and patterns or stories in the sand. This is how my daughter learnt to draw a 5 pointed star, tracing it out with her finger. There are some beautiful, creative videos on YouTube you can view for story inspiration.
View sand art Matariki story >>

MAKE MATARIKI PLAYDOUGH

Make this sensory playdough for young children including glitter (biodegradable is best!). Colour it black, navy or purple, or why not make all three and they can blend together. Pair with star shaped cutters for extra fun, or why not lay them out in the same format as the Matariki constellation. This activity is great time to read out Matariki stories or share waiata naming each Matariki star. It is important to be aware that in te ao Maori, food is considered sacred, so making your own playdough from flour may or may not be appropriate. From an environmental perspective it is better to make it that buy it in little plastic pots. Reflect on what feels right for you and your circumstance.
View bio glitter supplier >>