Things to do  |  17 Jun 2022

The Tīrama Mai lighting festival is set to get underway on Friday 24 June, marking the first Matariki public holiday in Ōtautahi-Christchurch.

Christchurch City Council Events and Arts Manager Lucy Blackmore says there are a series of all-new lighting installations, illuminated displays and live performances on offer for people to explore.

“It’s hard to pick a favourite out of all the wonderful displays, but I think Ngā Kōrero Pakiwaitara is a contender,” says Ms Blackmore.

The installation features a series of decorated benches where people can sit, warm up and enjoy hearing stories around a mock camp fire.

“It’s extra special because of the collaborative effort that went into bringing it all together. Staff from Tūranga will be reading stories each evening. Mitre 10 has kindly donated outdoor heaters and Gap Filler has loaned us a set of beautiful benches from their DiversCity 2022 project.”

Live readings of Matariki stories and Māori legends will be performed from 5:00pm – 7:00pm on June 24, 25, 26, 30 and July 1, 2 and 3. At other times, recordings of the stories will be played.

“From the story telling fire pit, visitors will be able to look around and see a lot of other features of the festival in Cathedral Square, including light projections, star lanterns, live performances, and other interactive installations,” says Ms Blackmore.

“Tīrama Mai provides a great opportunity to get together with friends and whānau to explore the central city and stop in to some of the great hospitality venues on offer as well.”

There are explorer zones throughout the city including Riverside Market, Little High, New Regent Street, Cathedral Square, Te Pae, and the Art Centre.

Tīrama Mai opens Friday 24 June and runs until Sunday 3 July. An interactive map providing the locations and details about all of the installations and activities on during Tīrama Mai is available on the Council’s website.