Matariki Weaving Wananga 2026

Kia ora koutou, nau mai haere mai

In this hands-on raranga (weaving) wānanga you will learn to create a kete waikawa; a traditional storage basket used for gathering and carrying kai.

This wānanga is about more than weaving. It is a space to slow down, connect, and learn. You will be guided through the process of working with harakeke, while also learning about the tīkanga and knowledge that sit alongside this practice.

Whether you are completely new to weaving or building on existing skills, you are warmly welcomed. The focus is not on perfection, but on being present, using your hands, and allowing your weaving to take shape.

Haere mai ki te Te Kōawa Lodge in the Jericho Valley and join tutors Tāua Rangimaria Suddaby and Renee McGinnis as they guide and support you to learn the traditional Māori practice of raranga / harakeke weaving.

This wānanga is most suitable for beginner or intermediate weavers. 

What to expect

• Guided weaving of a kete waikawa (a large basket)

• Learning about harakeke and tīkanga

• Kōrero, waiata and storytelling

• A relaxed, supportive learning environment

The Wānanga includes:

• Accommodation on Friday and Saturday nights at Te Kōawa Lodge;

• Kai and refreshments for the weekend (Friday night is potluck dinner);

• A Matariki celebration evening, and the opportunity to learn more about Matariki;

• Te reo kūpū associated with Matariki and raranga;

• A chance to learn more about our Te Kōawa Tūroa o Takitimu Mahinga Kai Restoration project and explore this Mahinga Kai Cultural Park under the Takitimu Maunga. 

Cost for the weekend

This is a sliding koha wānanga. Please choose the amount you are able to contribute:

• $55 - $75

Limited spaces so booking is essential. 

We prefer that participants attend for the entire wānanga programme. If you need to arrive late or leave early, please let us know.

This wānanga is aimed at adults, but rangatahi (age ~10+) who want to learn raranga/weaving are welcome with a caregiver.

Thanks to our sponsors and partners

• Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu

• Te Waiau Mahika Kai Trust

• Te Anau Waitangi Charitable Trust

This Wānanga is heavily subsidised thanks to a grant from the Ngāi Tahu Fund, and operational funding from Te Waiau Mahika Kai Trust.