Manu Taratahi is a triangular shaped traditional kite. The word 'manu' means bird and 'taratahi' describes the triangular shape of the kite. Manu Taratahi are seen to be the connectors between the heaven and earth, and have close links with Matariki. In the past they were used for communication between whaanau and iwi and continue to be important to Maaori, both spiritually and culturally.