Harakeke 'winters' over in the months of May, June, July and August. There is no 'r ' in the month. This is when it is heavy and sodden - really hard to work.
However, there are times when one can work harakeke during this time, especially if there has been a break in the weather.
Today I taught some pupils how to make a rohe - rosebud, out of harakeke. I had cut and prepared the harakeke at least three days prior to using it hoping most of its moisture had come out.
The photo shows a rau (leaf), a rohe being made and a bunch of rohe finished.
My kit is also in the picture. There is a craft knife, dog comb, pair of scissors, meat skewer, and a bone handled knife. All of these articles are useful to me.
