Matariki - kite flying

Kite Flying 1 from Matariki on Vimeo.
Last Friday the day looked great - no rain and windy. There was an enormous whanau turnout to come down to the beach and share kai with each other. The big remaining question was ... would the kites fly?

The results were variable! There was lift off and one flew successfully in a traditional kite manner (high in the sky), others spun in decreasing circles or never made it far off the ground. Next time ... maybe: more attention to tails and the balance they bring to a kite; lighter materials; or some different designs?

The kites were beautifully decorated to remember our ancestors. But what great enthusiasm and persistence was shown by all to endeavour to get their kite to fly. It was a great coming together as a community in our special place to celebrate a special time, and that is what Matariki is all about.

Kite Making for Matariki

Kite Building for Matariki

As our Matariki project this year we have been making kites.  Maori sometimes flew kites during Matariki as a way of connecting with the heavens, thinking about and remembering the Tipuna who have gone before us.

We spent the last two days making the kites.  First of all we learnt about the principles of flight: Lift vs Gravity, Thrust vs Drag and we have tried to keep these ideas in mind as we designed and built. Great energy has gone into the project.

Making a Manu Tukutuku.

Today we will find out if they fly!  Fingers crossed!

Great team work!