Matariki Ice Block Stick Stars

Looking for a creative and meaningful way to celebrate Matariki with your little ones? These DIY Matariki Ice Block Stick Stars are a beautiful hands-on activity that’s simple, fun, and perfect for home or the classroom.

This craft encourages children to reflect on the themes of Matariki — like connection, remembrance, and new beginnings — while exploring shapes, colours, and fine motor skills.

How to Make Matariki Ice Block Stick Stars

What You’ll Need

• Ice block/popsical sticks (6 per star) – plain or coloured
• PVA glue or a hot glue gun (see note below)
• Paint or markers
• Glitter, sequins, or gems for decoration
• String or ribbon (optional, for hanging)

Tip: For younger children, you can glue the stars together in advance with a hot glue gun. Older children may enjoy gluing their own stars with PVA glue or under supervision.

Instructions

1. Start by gluing six ice block sticks into a star shape. You can create two triangles and layer them, or experiment with overlapping lines to form a 6-pointed star. Let the glue dry fully before moving on.

2. Once your star is secure, it’s time to get creative! Paint the sticks in vibrant colours or keep them natural and add sparkle with glitter, sequins, or small gems. You may like to encourage kids to choose colours that represent the night sky or stars of Matariki.

3. If you’d like to display your stars, glue or tie a loop of string or ribbon to the top point of the star. These look beautiful hanging in windows or around your home during Matariki.

Why we Love this Matariki Craft

• It’s simple enough for toddlers (with help) and fun for older kids to do independently.
• It opens up a chance to talk about the meaning of Matariki while creating something beautiful.
• It’s a great way to slow down and enjoy some intentional, screen-free time together.
• There’s minimal mess, especially if you’re using our Mud Mates Craft Aprons and Fitted Tablecloths! 😉

More Matariki Fun!

Want more inspiration for celebrating Matariki with your tamariki? Check out our other Matariki-inspired crafts and activities that the whole whānau will enjoy.

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