Devised as a weapon of war in China, kites flew proudly as symbols of unity, community and peace at Matariki weekend.
“We were treated to fascinating accounts of the history and use of kites by both Maori and Chinese,” Adele White from Howick Local Board says.
Part of Pakuranga Library’s Community Programme, The Celebrating Matariki event on Saturday (June 29) was organised by librarian and community assistant, Vinson Chao Yu. It opened with a specially written karakia led by master carver and artist Matua Calvin Devine (Ngapuhi).
“Matua [also] explained how traditional Maori kites of Maori (often known as manu tukutuku or manu aute) were made and their significance in ancestral myths and legends. They were often made in the shape of a bird with some legends suggesting they were direct descendents of the god of birds. They were flown at Matariki sending wishes to people far away, both to the living and those who had died.”
Saint Kentigern College rangatahi, Leo Lu and Jim Qi, highlighted the similarities between the two cultures and their use of kites as part of the festivities. Similarly, early Chinese kites were usually bird-shaped but they were employed to guide troops, measuring distances and to relay messages.
“They [Leo Lu and Jim Qi] showed the group the artistic side of kite making with examples of large colourful kites created for ceremonial occasions and other intricately crafted miniature ornamental kites,” Adele adds. “The event later concluded on a celebratory note with attendees discussing commonalities and sharing kai from both Maori and Chinese cultures.”
