Matariki (Māori New Year) Story Table Kit

Matariki Story Table Kit

Celebrate storytelling through play and connection during the season of Matariki.

The Matariki Story Table Kit is a ready-to-use classroom resource designed to support rich oral language, sequencing, and early writing through imaginative, culturally grounded play. By engaging with beautiful, thematic materials and purposeful props, tamariki are invited to explore the stories of Matariki—its stars, traditions, and meanings—while creating and sharing their own.

Grounded in Aotearoa’s unique cultural context, this kit offers an inclusive and joyful way for children to connect with Māori narratives, values, and the natural world. Whether used for independent discovery or guided storytelling, the Matariki Story Table promotes deep engagement with language and culture.

Each kit includes:

• Matariki-themed fabrics to create a captivating story space
• Carefully selected props representing the stars of Matariki, seasonal symbols, and traditional elements
• Suggested pukapuka (books) to introduce the story and themes
• Writing materials: black paper, star-shaped cards, chalk pens, and more

Teacher role:

• Introduce the story table with warmth and respect for the cultural significance of Matariki
• Observe and note children’s narrative language, oral storytelling, and emergent writing
• Reflect on and respond to children’s ideas and storytelling in meaningful ways

Perfect for early years and lower primary classrooms using play-based or inquiry-led approaches, the Matariki Story Table fosters belonging, creativity, and oral literacy—while honouring the rhythms and traditions of Aotearoa.

A thoughtful, purposeful addition to your literacy and cultural curriculum.

**Loose parts disclaimer: The items shown in the product image are representative only. We carefully select similar loose parts for each kit, but individual items may vary based on availability—while still supporting the same play and learning outcomes.