Matariki kite day (manu tukutuku) checklist: before, on the day and after

Get council permission to use the public space.The rules
Get the landowner’s permission in writing.
Ask the council whether you need a permit.The rules
Read the food-safety rules for fundraising sales and plan safe handling.The rules
Write a one-page safety plan: hazards, who is in charge, first aid, what to do if it rains.
Check your group’s insurance covers this.
Choose an open field with no power lines: school field, domain or beach reserve; book it.
Pick a date in the school holidays around Matariki (public holiday Friday 10 July 2026, Te Papa).
Order kits early. The budget here uses plain kits at $4.95 each in bundles of 20+ (The Kite Lady); her Matariki colour-your-own diamond kite, with manu tukutuku and the Matariki stars, costs more ($15 each).
Invite a kaiako or local weaver to show traditional manu tukutuku or manu aute making with harakeke and raupō.

Brief the helpers: who does what, when, and where the cash box and first aid kit are.
Count the float with two people before you open, and write the total down.
Sell kits in advance through your school payment system, plus on the day.
Run a decorating table with pens, tape and tails; adults help with bridles.
Set a flying zone and a spectator zone, and a 'kite doctor' table for repairs.
Sell hot soup, sausages, baking and drinks on the side.
Pick a back-up date; light wind days are hard to predict.

Matariki kite day (manu tukutuku): checklist