Kōruru - Knuckle bones

Explore the resource collection, Te Ao Kori

This activity resource collection, "Ngā mahi ā te rēhia - Games and pastimes", is part of the resource collection Te Ao Kori.

Ngā mahi ā te rēhia - Games and pastimes collection
Background information
Te Ao Kori collection
Tātaiako cultural competencies for teachers of Māori learners

Intended outcomes 

Ākonga can: 

• participate in a wide range of ngā mahi a te rēhia (games and pastimes) activities and identify what made the experience enjoyable 
• demonstrate positive interpersonal skills when participating in ngā mahi a te rēhia.   

Suggested approach 

The game is played by ākonga working in pairs or groups with five small stones, but first ākonga will need to practise to gain confidence. 

Starting with one or two stones, practise throwing and catching; for example, throw and catch on the back of the hand, throw and pick up one from the ground, and catch the thrown one before it hits the ground. The game is increased to three stones, then four, and finally five.

Actions for kōruru 

• Hold all five stones in one hand, throw them up in the air, and catch all five stones on the back of the hand. 
• Ruru tahi (pick up ones): Hold all five stones in one hand. Throw them up in the air to catch them. Put the caught stones (ruru) aside. Use one of the ruru to throw up in the air and sweep up one fallen stone at a time, putting each one in the ruru pile as it is successfully caught. Repeat this until all the stones are in the ruru pile. 
• Ruru rua (pick up twos): Pick up two stones in a single sweep until all are in the ruru pile. 
• Ruru toru (pick up threes): Pick up three stones in a single sweep until all are in the ruru pile. 
• Ruru whā (pick up fours): Pick up four stones in a single sweep until all are in the ruru pile.