At BestStart MacDonald Street our children are exposed to an array of activities planned to extend their knowledge and interest in Te Ao Māori. In our Kowhai room our Kaiako, Sheree and Gina showed the children how to weave flax flowers.
The children gathered around, excitedly, and watched in anticipation as their creations came to life. These flowers were then presented to two of our tamariki who were heading off to school as a reminder to Be Strong (kia Kaha), Be Brave (kia Maia) and Be Steadfast (kia Manawanui) on the next road in their journey of life.
Flax weaving in New Zealand is an art form and began in Māori culture with the arrival of our ancestors who landed in a new country with no idea about the terrain and climate. For these intrepid travellers, flax (harakeke) played a big part in ensuring their survival as they used both the inner and outer fibres to make clothing, fishing nets, baskets and ropes.
There are many masterpieces you can make out of flax, from a fantail which only used 2 pieces of flax to a more involved putiputi, the possibilities are endless.
Have a look at the following website for some simple, fun ideas to make with your tamariki:
https://greengrubsgardenclub.com/2018/10/fun-simple-harakeke-flax-activities-for-children/