7 Jun 2016

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The winter night sky is signalling it's Maori New Year and there are Matariki events happening all over Christchurch.

The rise of the star cluster the Pleiades marks the beginning of the Matariki festival according to the lunar calendar. This year it takes place on June 6.

Traditionally, Matariki was a time for remembering the past and celebrating the future.  People would remember and acknowledge thos who had passed on. Wānanga and feasting were also associated with this time of year.  The event has been having a revival in the past decade and sharing of kai (food) with family and friends is a popular way of marking the occasion. 

Matariki may be translated as tiny eyes (mata riki), or eyes of God (Mata Ariki). The eyes are thought to watch over the land and its people.

Christchurch City Libraries  Kaiwhakahaere Ratonga Māori Aurelia Arona says local libraries are committed to Matariki and are excited about offering a of variety of programmes this year, from activities aimed at preschoolers  and parents  to other whānau based events.

Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre is hosting a Matariki Festival on Saturday June 11 from 11am until 2pm. The free, family fun day will feature storytelling, the Science Alive Star Dome, arts, crafts and 3D printing and kapa haka.

All Christchurch City Council libraries are taking part in a community art project with Matariki-themed art and craft activities and there are various sessions of Matariki storytimes suitable for children aged two to five.

Other local events include a Whanau Fun Day at Rehua Marae on Springfield Road on Saturday June 25 with workshops, stalls and waiata, and Matariki in the Zone on June 19 at the Anzac Drive Reserve hosted by the Avon-Otakaro Network.