Te Kōputu a te whanga a Toi—the Whakatāne Library and Exhibition Centre—has a school holiday programme with something for everyone and entertainment for all age groups. All the activities below are free to participate in. Bookings are not essential, but we’d like to get an idea on numbers for the Making Sense and Poi-making workshops. If you’re interested in attending either of these, please contact our staff at Te Kōputu on 07 306 0509.

Hotoke Challenge Booklet and Matariki Activity Sheets

Available throughout the Holidays

The Hotoke (winter) Challenge Booklet is available from Te Kōputu (and all other Whakatāne District Libraries) throughout the July school holidays. Complete at least nine challenges to claim a small gift. We also have Matariki Activity Sheets to keep the kids entertained. Both are available at the front counter. People can also decorate a star to remember someone special in their lives who has passed away, with the stars going on display in the library in a special area dedicated to Matariki.

Ora Barlow-Tukaki | Music and stories

Ora, of Pacific Curls fame, will perform two 30-minute sessions. The theme is Matariki, and Ora will take her audience on a musical and storytelling journey to the stars and back again.

Date: Wednesday, 8 July | 5-8 year olds
Time: 10:30 am–11 am and 11:30–12 pm

Making Sense | Mandy Hague – Award-winning Whakatāne based artist

In support of our current exhibition Making Sense, Mandy will hold two kids' workshops investigating identity and portraiture. Children will have the chance to experiment with various materials and processes including collage and drawing.

Dates:
Wednesday, 8 July | 5–8 year olds
Thursday, 9 July | 9–12 year olds

Time: 1 pm–3 pm each day

Ora Barlow-Tukaki | Poi-making and performance

Join Ora as she takes you through the art of poi-making, and then put your poi to use as we learn how to use poi in performance. This is a fun and interactive workshop for all ages.

Date: Monday, 13 July
Times:  10 am–12 pm or 1 pm–3 pm
Suitable for all levels

Ora Barlow-Tukaki | Ukulele show and workshop

Ora is back to show you how to play the Ukulele! Bring your own or borrow one of ours. Suitable for all levels, this session starts with a 40-minute performance followed by a relaxed sharing of skills.

Date: Wednesday, 15 July
Time: 11 am