Weaving wakarei, harakeke baskets for pēpi (babies) born sleeping to gift to Whangarei hospital

PDF file with step by step instructions:

Weaving Wakarei

Supporting video:

Wakarei instruction video

These practical instructions serve as a reminder after my dedicated workshops, of the steps needed to weave these baskets. It is always preferable to seek a workshop or someone to teach you if you are a beginner weaver.

Why make these baskets? They were requested from and we have been donating them to 3 different departments at Whangarei Hospital. "By returning pēpi in a flax wakarei, we honour the sacredness of life and acknowledge the grief that may accompany its loss. This simple act transforms a clinical moment into one of dignity and aroha".

The name wakarei was gifted by Crystle Hona and for this purpose signifies the ending of the journey or final resting place.

I hope you may find these guidelines helpful, it has been a challenge to put them together so please forgive any errors or omissions - as I would rather be weaving!

If you would like to donate to another hospital outside Whangarei, it is best to contact your hospital directly about their needs and delivery, or get in touch with me via Facebook or my website so I can point you in the right direction to gift your creations. Today, there are many great online resources on Youtube or other channels, just search for weaving/raranga, harakake/NZ flax etc. Thank you for being part of this kaupapa and I wish you fun and fulfillment on you weaving journey.

Ngā mihi nui,

Wendy x

Made possible with funding from Whangarei District Creative Communities Scheme.