Explore the science of tuna. Learn, play, and create your own soft-sculpture eel with local artist Pepi-Joy Gilgen.

Tuna, or freshwater eels, are taonga species with an incredible life cycle. They travel vast distances, live for decades, and live for up to 100 years.

During this Matariki programme, tamariki will begin their morning in Exscite, learning about the lifecycle of eels and playing with our playful and cheeky eel projection.

In the afternoon, they will visit our He Momo Nā te Whānau exhibition to explore how the natural world inspires jewellery, art and creative practice. From there, it’s time to get hands‑on and let imaginations wriggle free.

Working with local artist Pepi‑Joy Gilgen, tamariki will create their own soft‑sculpture eel to take home. Each eel will be unique and will make very low‑maintenance pets!

About Pepi-Joy Gilgen

Pepi‑Joy Gilgen is an emerging artist based in Aotearoa New Zealand. In this school holiday programme, Pepi‑Joy works with soft sculpture techniques, guiding tamariki to create eel forms using textiles, padding, and hand‑assembled materials. Her approach emphasises playful making, tactile learning, and transforming ideas from the natural world into three‑dimensional artworks that can be handled, shaped, and taken home. 

Matariki ki Waikato Festival

We’re proud to be part of the Matariki Ki Waikato Festival, a celebration of Matariki with unique events across the Waikato.