Holidays are busy times for libraries

TWO whole weeks of no school, and the districts’ libraries are readying for the onslaught of young readers looking for something to do.

Both Ōtorohanga and Waitomo libraries have holiday programmes that involve a lot more than just sitting round reading.

Ōtorohanga library assistant Fiona Cowan said they are planning an Easter egg hunt in the library during the first week. Chocolate and books will be kept separate, Fiona said.

Chocolate won’t actually be in the books, it will be kept behind the counter.  

A theme for the holiday is ‘I love my library’ and there will be a community poster supporting the theme where people can post love notes.

There will be some craft activities, and a teddy bear sleepover. People can bring in their favourite – or second favourite teddy for a library sleepover.    

When they pick up their teddy or other favourite toy the following day, there will be photos showing what mischief their teddy got up to during the sleepover.

There will also be a couple of craft days, making bookmarks and Anzac poppies.

Waitomo District Library has space themed activity packs suitable for children aged 5 – 12yrs. The activity pack comes with everything provided to ensure all can take part. Activities include drawing galaxies and growing space flowers as well as making rockets.

All activities are space themed and focused on keeping children occupied for hours without needing a device.  

On Wednesday April 12, children will have a two hour opportunity from 10am to 12pm, to become a movie director.

Using clever technology and creating the movie set themselves, compiled photos played in a sequence will produce short films. Devices will be provided; however BYO is welcomed.  

During the second week of the holidays any day between 10am – 3pm a collaborative cardboard city will take pride of place in the library where participants can construct structures to add to the city.  

There is also an Easter colouring competition starting tomorrow, March 31, for children aged 0 – 12yrs. Copies can be picked up from Waitomo District Library or downloaded from the library website. The competition ends Friday 21 April.

More Recent News

Rural news in brief

Still time Nominations close tomorrow for any outstanding native forest initiatives for the Growing Native Forest Champions awards. Now in their second year, the awards recognise individuals and organisations leading the establishment and restoration of…

Sheridan brings global insight

Pirongia based dairy leader Jo Sheridan put international experience into practice as record crowds turned out for Owl Farm’s annual open day, where she spoke to Mary Anne Gill. Fresh from a tour of United…

Museum’s tribute to shears

The Te Kūiti Museum and Gallery celebrated the 40th edition of the New Zealand Shears with a special exhibition on Saturday. Shearing memorabilia was to the fore, the exhibition displaying a shrine of everything that…

Backing the next generation

A farming student from Waotu, a rural community southeast of Ōtorohanga, has been recognised as an emerging leader in New Zealand’s sheep and beef sector. Penny Ranger (Ngāti Raukawa) is one of 10 recipients of…