Make a Manu Tukutuku (kite)

Tamariki know the significance of manu tututuku and its connections in the world.

We've read that such great things about the significance of manu tukutuku. We especially love that traditionally they were used to welcome Matariki - this is because they sail close to the whetū (stars) and connect us and Papatūānuku (the earth) to those that have passed on.

Follow our manu tukutuku worksheet and video below to make your manu tukutuku.

You will need:

• A full sheet of newspaper
• Two pieces of bamboo or two sticks approx. 6mm round The length of the two sticks or bamboo should be 60cm and 50cm – you could ask a DIY shop to cut this for you, otherwise get the help of an adult – they will need a small handsaw.
• Scissors
• A pencil
• Lots of string
• Some strong tape
• A ruler
• Wool, ribbon, feathers – light things to decorate the tail.

Please note: Our manu tukutuku design is not traditional because we wanted to make it really easy for everyone! We did find that there are traditional designs available online and you may want to give these a try too!

Check out the Sparklers at home version of this activity too and Whare with whānau - Make a Manu Tukutuku (kite)