Enjoy our Matariki school holiday programme for tamariki aged 5-12 years!
Nau mai, haere mai! Join us these school holidays as we celebrate Matariki, the Māori new year. Matariki is a special time to remember those who have gone before us, celebrate the present and look forward to the future. Together, tamariki will enjoy two weeks of creativity, cultural learning, fun and connection while exploring the stories, values and traditions of Matariki.
Week 1:
Mane 6 Hoongongoi, 10.30am - 11.30am | Ngaa Whetuu Piiataata (Sparkly Stars)
Let’s brighten the library!
Tamariki will create sparkly stars to celebrate the Matariki cluster and its whānau of stars. A fun, imaginative session connecting our hands and hearts to the stars above.
Tuurei 7 Hoongongoi, 10.30am - 11.30am | Whatu Kaakahu (Cloak Creations)
Today we celebrate identity, creativity and whakapapa.
Tamariki will design and create their own korowai inspired by traditional Māori patterns and the stories of Matariki. A meaningful and joyful opportunity to explore protection, belonging and cultural expression.
Wenerei 8 Hoongongoi, 10.30am - 12.30pm | Matariki Haukai (Cookies and Kōrero)
A day of wānanga and creativity!
Tamariki and rangatahi will take part in workshops and bake Matariki keke (cookies) for our Matariki Night Market. A celebration of learning, sharing and community spirit.
Week 2:
Mane 13 Hoongongoi, 10.30am - 11.30am | Te Whare Pora (Weaving Creations)
Tamariki will explore the art of Māori weaving, creating stars, manu (birds) and other Matariki-inspired taonga.
A space for creativity, patience and the sharing of knowledge between generations.
Tuurei 14 Hoongongoi, Hato Hone St John Waananga (Safety Workshops)
A meaningful day of learning how to care for ourselves, our whānau, and our community.
- 10.30am - 11.30am | Tamariki (5-12 years): Learn how to recognise danger, stay safe and confidently call 111.
- 12.30pm - 2pm | Rangatahi (13-17 years): Hands-on CPR and essential first aid skills.
Registration required, email Clendon.Library@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz to book your spot.
Wenerei 15 Hoongongoi, 10am - 1.30pm | Lashing and Resilience Workshops
Creativity and connection come together today in two hands-on workshops run by Youthline.
Rangatahi (13-17 year olds) will rotate through sessions exploring traditional lashing techniques and va’a-style activities designed to build resilience, teamwork and respect.
A day celebrating skill, patience, cultural practice and active participation.
Registration required, email Clendon.Library@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz to book your spot.
Wenerei 15 Hoongongoi, 10.30am - 11.30am | He Waka Koorero (Paper Waka Making)
E rere Waitii, papaki mai Waitaa!
Tamariki aged 5-12 years will craft their own paper waka while exploring stories of navigation, journeys and whānau.
A creative space to connect with stars of Matariki and our tupuna, reflecting on the journeys that shape us.
Paraire 17 Hoongongoi, 10.30am - 1pm | Whānau Event (all ages)
Te Haukai o Waimaahia (A Festive Celebration for Waimaahia). Join us for a joyful day of celebration as we close our Matariki programme together.
Enjoy inflatables, obstacle courses, games, stalls, kai, laughter and whānau fun. A beautiful opportunity to celebrate the friendships, memories and connections made throughout our Matariki journey.
Note for whānau:
All programmes are free, but spaces may be limited. Please check registration requirements.
A scavenger hunt will be available from 4-18 July, and a movie will be shown daily at 3pm.
Come along and share in the joy of Matariki!