Matariki hunga nui - Matariki has many admirers.
Nau mai haere mai koutou.
What is Matariki?
Matariki is an important cluster of stars to Maori, which was used as a way to calculate time and seasons, navigate oceans, preserve knowledge and stories, maintain customary practices and inspire action and achievement.
The pre-dawn rise of Matariki can be seen in the last few days of May every year and the new year is marked at the sighting of the next new moon which usually occurs during June. This year it falls on 12 June.
Today Matariki means celebrating the unique place in which we live and giving respect to the land we live on. It is a special time to celebrate the customs and art forms and uniqueness of Maori culture. It is the coming together of family and friends and of sharing each other’s skills, achievements and history. There is story telling, song and dance, carving and weaving, ancient ceremonies and passing on of knowledge and history. Throughout Matariki we learn about those who came before us: our history, our family, our bones.
Matariki signals growth. It’s a time of change, a time to prepare and a time of action. During Matariki we acknowledge what we have and what we have to give. Matariki celebrates the diversity of life. It’s a celebration of culture, language, spirit and people.
Celebrate Matariki
We have a great range of events throughout the city in June 2011.
Download our Matariki events brochure here.
Christchurch City Libraries
- Matariki-themed storytimes
- Star craft
- Star weaving
- Parade of Maori garments
- Display of Cloaks
- Short Films
Check out the events programme here.
Ngā Hau E Wha National Marae
250 Pages Road, Aranui, Christchurch
Tuesday 14 & 21, Thursday 16 & 23 June
5.30pm – 7.30pm, all free!
All are welcome to the Marae to learn more about the significance of Matariki. Activities include:
- Cultural entertainment
- Star gazing
- Craft activities
- Hot soup
- Attend NZ Short Film screenings
- Special marae light show 8 – 18 June
Children’s Kite Making Weekend Workshop
Sunday 19 June, 10am or 1pm
Suitable for children ages 5 and over.
Spaces limited. Bookings essential, phone 941 7923
These Marae events are supported by the Burwood/Pegasus Community Board, Hagley/Ferrymead Community Board, Christchurch City Libraries, Christchurch City Council, Ngā Hau E Wha National Marae, He Oranga Pounamu, Creative Communities New Zealand, Te Puni Kōkiri, Te Runanga O Nga Maata Waka, Manaaki Sounds Trust, CDHB Public and Community Health.
