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The simple act of making stars from harekeke (flax) brought together children of all ages and backgrounds to discover more about Maori culture and Matariki at Warkworth Library last week.
Matariki is the Maori name for the constellation of stars, also known in other cultures as Pleiades or the Seven Sisters. It signifies Te Tau Hou (Maori New Year), a time to reflect on the past and prepare for the future.
The school holiday Matariki programme was designed to ‘take a glimpse into the Maori world’. Other activities included making a taniwha and sharing taniwha stories. It finishes with a kapa haka performance by Warkworth Primary on Friday July 17 at 11am.
Children’s librarian Emily Flaws says the activities help expand experience and knowledge. She says libraries are not just about books, and encourage all forms of literacy, including oral literacy.
“Making the flax stars give the children a sense of achievement, and something to try and learn more about at home.”
Matakana mother Sally Jack came along with her children, George, 7, and Ed, 6. Sally says it was a great opportunity for the family, who come from London, to learn more about the Maori culture and Matariki.
Info: matarikifestival.org.nz
