Overview
In Māori culture the dawn of a new year aligns with the rise of the Pleiades constellation — otherwise known as Matariki. Appearing late May through June, the constellation was once used for navigation and timing the seasons. Now, it's recognised as a time to honour Aotearoa's Māori identity, to reflect, look forward and connect with friends and whānau.
To mark the occasion, every year Auckland Council presents Matariki Festival — a three-week program of events. This year's festivities will run from 22 June to 14 July across Tāmaki Makaurau with film screenings, street festivals, thought-provoking exhibitions, glow-in-the-dark puppet shows, and Māori art workshops.
Auckland's first in-ground hāngi cafe, The Māori Kitchen, will celebrate by digging up the lawn in Britomart's Takutai Square for a shallow hāngi. From 26–30 June, hāngi master Rewi Spraggon will be serving up kai in the form of wraps, pies, burgers and mixed hāngi boxes.
Waiata will be provided by Aotearoa musicians Hannah Teipo, Jhasmyne, Tipene, MGN and Valance Smith every lunch time, while a free evening concert will take over the space on Friday, 28 June featuring Dennis Marsh, The Koi Boys, Rob Ruha and Troy Kingi.
Image: Michael Lewis.
Information
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