Waitākere Ranges locals can start planning their Matariki celebrations, with a vibrant programme of free and low-cost events taking place in the neighbourhoods throughout June and July.
Proudly supported by Waitākere Ranges Local Board in partnership with local community groups and organisations, the programme offers opportunities for people of all ages to come together to reflect, learn, create and celebrate the Māori New Year.
Waitākere Ranges Local Board chair Mark Allen says Matariki is a special time for communities to reconnect with each other and Te Taiao (the environment).
"As we welcome the rising of Matariki, it's a time to reflect on the year that has passed, celebrate the present and look ahead with hope for the future," says Allen.
"The events taking place across our communities offer something for everyone, from creative workshops and cultural experiences to shared meals, music and opportunities to connect with whānau, neighbours and the Nature."
A wide range of activities will be held across Glen Eden, Oratia, Piha and Titirangi.
In Glen Eden, celebrations include an interactive Matariki display at Glen Eden Library, mindfulness sessions, family-friendly school holiday activities, community lunches at Visionwest, creative workshops and a Matariki Dusk Trail Walk.
Titirangi residents can gather at Titirangi Community House for the Matariki Community Soup and Share event, bringing people together over kai and conversation. Te Uru Gallery’s current exhibition, COSMOLOGIES, which explores dialogue shaped by the night sky, is also a must-see.
Piha will host an extensive weekend-long programme featuring taonga pūoro workshops, a dawn hautapu ceremony on North Piha Beach, kapa haka performances, kite flying, storytelling, environmental knowledge sharing, weaving, community campfires, hāngī and live music.
Meanwhile, Oratia will celebrate with a whānau day at Arataki Visitor Centre, kōwhaiwhai painting workshops, community festivities featuring music and kapa haka, collaborative art activities and youth-focused wānanga.
Whether you're interested in learning about Matariki traditions, trying a new creative activity, sharing kai (food) with the community or simply spending time with friends and whānau, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the Māori New Year close to home.
For full event details, including booking requirements for selected activities click here [PDF] (160 KB).
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