Designing a Humane Taniwha Trap
Technology Years 3-8 Creative Problem-Solving with Māori Culture Catch and Release Design Challenge
What is a Taniwha?
Technology Years 3-8 Creative Problem-Solving with Māori Culture Catch and Release Design Challenge
Design Challenge Question
If you had to catch a taniwha safely and humanely, what would you need to consider? Think about: Location, Materials, Bait, and Release Method
Design Considerations
{"left":"Safe for the taniwha\nEnvironmentally friendly materials\nCatch and release mechanism\nSuitable for NZ habitats","right":"Effective bait or lure\nEasy to monitor and operate\nRespectful of Māori culture\nPractical to build and maintain"}
Sketch Your Trap Design
Draw your trap design in your notebook Label these key elements: • Materials used (flax, wood, rope, etc.) • How the mechanism works • What bait will you use? • Where will you place it? Share with a partner for feedback
Suitable Materials for NZ
Harakeke (flax) - strong, flexible fibers Native timber - totara, kauri, rimu Natural rope from plant fibers Pounamu (greenstone) - sacred stone Shells and smooth river stones Avoid plastic and harmful chemicals
Build Your Prototype
Create a 3D model using craft materials Available materials: • Cardboard and paper • String and pipe cleaners • Natural items (leaves, small sticks) • Playdough or building blocks Test your mechanism - does it work? How would you improve it?
Reflection & Learning
"The most interesting part of my design was..." Gallery walk: View classmates' creative solutions Discuss: What made the best designs successful? How does your trap ensure taniwha safety?
More Taniwha slide decks
Other ready-to-teach decks on taniwha.
Free Taniwha images
Drop these illustrations straight into your lesson.
