Why do we love Making Manu Tukutuku

We've read that such great things about the significance of manu tukutuku. We espeically 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.

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!

What to do

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.