Celebrate Matariki with us

In Māori culture, Matariki is the Pleiades star cluster and a celebration of its first rising in late June or early July. The rising marks the beginning of the new year in the Māori lunar calendar.

It is a time of reflection, celebration, and new beginnings – as well as a time to honour ancestors, acknowledge
achievements, and plan for the future. While the occasion has been commemorated for many years, Matariki has taken on a broader significance since 2022 when it was made a public holiday across Aotearoa.

There are many ways that Matariki is celebrated in our communities, and it is an important way to connect with New Zealand’s unique cultural heritage and deepen our understanding of the values and beliefs of Māori. From traditional waiata (songs), hangi and kapa haka (performances) to contemporary art exhibitions and food festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Join us at one of the following events:

• Our big Matariki event for Tasman is on Friday 5 July at Motueka’s Decks Reserve, beginning at 7pm. It will be a special community celebration with storytelling, waiata and warm kai. Come along with friends and whānau and experience Matariki with the Tasman community. Keep up with the latest information on this event on Facebook.(external link)
• Tākaka Library is celebrating the rising of Matariki on Thursday June 27 between 12.00 pm and 1.00 pm with an opportunity to enjoy some pumpkin soup, and learn about planting by the maramataka – the Māori lunar calendar.
• We have a workshop at Motueka Library Te Noninga Kumu for creating Matariki harakeke stars on Friday 5 July from 3pm - 5pm. Keep up with the latest info on the workshop here.(external link)

You can learn more about Matariki at matariki.co.nz(external link). Ngā mihi o Matariki, te tau hou Māori!

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