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. After the challenges of the past few months, the Matariki refresh button arrives at a fitting time for the nation.
To mark the occasion, Te Papa is hosting an evening of stories, chants, songs, and reflections about activism and resistance in Aotearoa and the Pacific. Mau tūmārō: Sharing Stories of Perseverance will be held on Thursday, 16 July (5.30–7pm) and Friday, 17 July (7–8.30pm) at Te Marae.
The stories, passed down through whānau (family) or recounted from personal experience, will focus on interactions with police and other forces. You'll hear kōrero (discussion) on the invasion at Parihaka, the Takaparawhā Bastion Point protests and eviction, the Samoan Mau and the events around 'Black Saturday', and the work of the Polynesian Panthers and other Pacific activists in Aotearoa.
For those who can't make it along, the event will also be live-streamed.
Image: Polynesian Panthers protestors in central Auckland during the Soledad Brothers solidarity march on the US Consulate, 3 March 1972. © John Miller, 1972.