me, with my first manu taratahi (three point kite) inside wharenui "big meeting house"

Te Ure Were Valley, New Zealand Oct 06

note accompanied the kite gift
Manu Taratahi, raupo, toetoe, harakeke

The art of Maori kitemaking had been lost and has only recently seen light again. Kites are a symbol of freedom, hope, and youth for me and I fancy taking part in their construction. The beauty of traditional Maori kites lies in their natural simplicity.

The coincidental discovery of 3 essential ingredients all growing in Ruatahuna brought my kite making dreams to reality. The raupo (bullrush), used for covering has eluded me since my arrival in New Zealand. was found in abundance at a creek in Meriam's and Richard's property. Toe toe (native pampass grass) used for framing proved unusually difficult to find here. I did not realize how lucky I was to stmble upon some lone stalks on a hillside in the dark. It would be many miles in the next morning light til I spotted more near the school grounds. With the harakeke (flax) to bind, I set out to make my first manu taratahi-three pointed kite.

During my stay, the days have been windless or filled with force 5 gales, not the idela conditions to test the fragile kite. I am confident however, with correct bridle adjustments, the kite can grace the sky-fly. I hope others will be encouraged to make manu taratahi, it is a great way to play and dance with Tawhirimatea.