Mānawatia a Matariki

As part of this year’s Matariki celebrations, Ngā Kete e Toru and the Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki Lincoln University Art Collection, in partnership with Te Mātāpuna Mātātahi Children’s University, hosted a collaborative workshop titled Ngā Kākano Whetū o Matariki – Star Seeds of Matariki.

Students from Te Kura o Tauhinu (Lincoln Primary School), Te Kura o Makonui (Springston School), and Tai Tapu School came together to learn about Matariki, kaitiakitanga, and sustainability through a hands-on creative activity. Using recycled books and newspapers from the Lincoln University Library, the students created their own paper, which they then used to craft star-shaped seed decorations. Once planted, these stars will bloom into pollinator-friendly flowers, enhancing biodiversity and improving soil health.

A special element of the workshop was its spirit of collaboration - each school made handmade paper for the next, creating a cycle of giving, sharing, and learning. It was a joyful and meaningful celebration of Matariki that connected students with the land, with one another and with their wider community.

A special shout-out to LTL staff, Grace Hinton, Rachael Marriott and Pru Steinerts, for their help and support. The workshop would not have happened without you!

Mānawatia a Matariki ✨