Things to do  |  21 May 2019

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Christchurch City Libraries are marking Matariki by hosting creative, family-friendly events to brighten up mid-winter.

Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades. When the cluster rises on the horizon in mid-winter it heralds the start of a new year.

Matariki celebrations will be held throughout June.

Fun, family-friendly Matariki celebrations will be held at Christchurch City Libraries throughout June.

The stars represent a time for whānau and friends to come together to reflect on the past year, remember those who have passed away, prepare for the seasons ahead, and mark the New Year.

The libraries’ celebration is focused on three of the nine stars of Matariki, Te Kāhui Kumanu a Matariki, or the guardian stars. It takes a fresh look at Maori oral traditions, practices and customs associated with the festival.

Events and activities being held include:

  • storytimes (Wā Kōrero) sessions with Matariki stories, rhymes and songs at local library branches.
  • a community art project (MatarikiToi) making star crafts with sessions from 3.30pm until 4.30pm at various libraries.
  • a Matariki Family Movie (Matariki Kiriata) at Tūranga’s TSB Space on Sunday 23 June from 1pm to 3pm.
  • Matariki Family Days (Matariki Wānaka) from 10.30am to 3pm at New Brighton Library, Saturday 15 June and TSB Space, Tūranga, Sunday 30 June. 

Christchurch City Council Head of Libraries Carolyn Robertson says Matariki is becoming a bigger celebration each year as more people understand the festival’s significance and get involved.

“Our libraries are hosting some enjoyable, creative activities that will bring our community together so we really encourage people to come along.”

Throughout the school term Libraries Learning Centres will be holding Matariki Connect which include fun activities for school children, focusing on the key concepts of Te Iwa o Matariki and the guardian stars of Matariki. Call 03 941 5140 to find out more.

A Matariki event is being held at Rehua Marae on Saturday 29 June from 10am until 3pm with stalls, waiata and workshops.

The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora is also marking Matariki with workshops, a mākete (market), speakers, performances and family activities from 25 June to 7 July.