NICK COWDY / Residential Sales Consultant, Principal Agent
Matariki, the Māori New Year, marks a period of reflection, celebration, and planning for the future. Based on the lunar calendar, Matariki is a time for gathering with whānau (family) and friends, honouring those who have passed, and looking forward to new beginnings.
The Matariki star cluster, known in full as “Ngā mata o te ariki Tāwhirimātea” (the eyes of the ariki Tāwhirimātea), holds a deep cultural significance. According to Māori legend, when Ranginui (the sky father) and Papatūānuku (the earth mother) were separated by their son Tāne, Tāwhirimātea, the god of the winds and weather, was so heartbroken that he tore out his eyes and cast them into the sky, forming the Matariki cluster.
This star cluster is recognised globally under different names – Makali’i in Hawaii, Pleiades in Greece, and in Japan it is most famously known as Subaru.
There are numerous ways to immerse yourself in the Matariki celebrations in Christchurch this year, bringing together the community through various events and activities.
Matariki is more than just a cultural event; it’s a time to connect with the past, appreciate the present, and plan for the future. Whether through attending local events, participating in workshops, or simply gathering with loved ones, Matariki offers a unique opportunity to embrace new beginnings and celebrate the richness of Māori culture.
Matariki with Christchurch City Libraries (15 June – 29 June)
Explore the rich traditions of Matariki through resources, crafts, and celebrations with Christchurch City Libraries. This month-long celebration includes activities, workshops, and special events like Matariki Takiura, Matariki Wānaka Whānau Day (22 June), and Matariki ki Rehua Marae (29 June). More information can be found here.
Tīrama Mai (21 June – 30 June)
Produced by the Christchurch City Council, Tīrama Mai is a free cultural festival featuring artistic displays, performances, and storytelling. The festival showcases illuminated artworks, projections, music, and interactive installations. The opening night will feature kapa haka performances at The Art Centre in the North Quad, promising an unforgettable experience. More information can be found here.
Matariki at the Arts Centre (17 June – 30 June)
The Arts Centre will host various events, including performances by Dillastrate x Harmony & Rhythm on 20 June and Māmā Mihirangi on subsequent nights. Don’t miss the new Ngāi Tahu exhibition, Te Waiatatanga Mai o Te Atua (Song of the Gods), in the Observatory Tower, and the New Zealand premiere of the award winning dance film Potaka Nautilus. The Garden City Mākete Matariki will offer kai (food), workshops, and a kapa haka showcase. More information can be found here.
Feast Matariki (19 June – 27 June)
Feast Matariki 2024, presented by Eat New Zealand and Ngāi Tahu whānau, celebrates Kai Hau Kai as the inspiration for Feast Matariki. For Ngāi Tahu, it was originally a way and place that people came together around food, celebrated abundance, feasted, and traded excess. More information can be found here.
