Matariki StoryWalk®
This winter, families are invited to discover the magic of Matariki through a special pop-up StoryWalk® in the heart of Feilding.
Installed around the rose garden near the Feilding Cenotaph War Memorial in Manchester Square, the free Matariki-themed StoryWalk® features Flit the Fantail and the Matariki Map by New Zealand author Kat Quin. The public can see it now until 31 July 2026 as part of the Manawatū Matariki Winter Festival. This community initiative has been made possible with the support of Scholastic New Zealand.
The StoryWalk® route is suitable for most prams and mobility aids, though visitors should take extra care in wet weather. While the story follows a night-time adventure beneath the stars, the StoryWalk® is best enjoyed during daylight hours.
As visitors make their way along the StoryWalk®, they will join Flit the fantail on a journey beneath the night sky. Accompanied by Keri the kiwi and the wise Ruru, Flit sets off in pursuit of a shining star on the horizon. When the friends lose their way, they turn to the stars of Matariki to guide them safely home, introducing readers to themes of navigation, friendship, and the significance of Matariki.
Beautifully illustrated throughout, the story celebrates Aotearoa’s native wildlife, local flora and fauna, Te Reo Māori counting, whānau connections, and the values at the heart of Matariki. Each page invites tamariki and adults to read together while exploring the outdoors, creating a shared experience that combines storytelling, learning, and nature.
StoryWalks® combine literacy, physical activity, and nature, transforming reading into an interactive experience. The trail encourages families to slow down, explore their surroundings, and connect through storytelling while learning about one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important cultural celebrations.
Developed by Manawatū Community Hub Libraries (MCHL), this temporary installation reflects MCHL’s ongoing commitment to promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and community connection through innovative outdoor experiences.
This latest StoryWalk® introduces a new chapter for the programme, featuring purpose-built metal display stands that distinguish this temporary-style StoryWalk® from previous installations, replacing the traditional timber frames with a contemporary alternative. The adaptable design allows stories to be refreshed and changed in the future, creating exciting opportunities for new reading adventures.
Visitors can also discover four additional MCHL StoryWalk® locations at Te Āhuru Mōwai, Himatangi Beach, Kōwhai Park, and Mt Lees Reserve.