Matariki celebrations

Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre invites you to observe Matariki with talented artists from Ōtautahi and beyond. Just as the nine whetū (stars) are navigation points in the night sky, Matariki is a chance to orient ourselves, reflect on how far we’ve come, thank those (past and present) who guide us, and consider where to from here. Ngā toi (the arts) bring fresh perspective, connect us, and lift our moods. This year’s Matariki programme includes outstanding performers, an exhibition of Māori visual arts from Te Wai Pounamu (the South Island), a stunning Kapa Haka showcase, and the Matariki mākete with local crafts and delicious food. View the full programme and buy tickets at artscentre.org.nz

8 July, Great Hall

Maisey Rika (Ngati Awa, Te Arawa, Ngai Tuhoe, Te Whānau a Apanui) is an Arts Foundation Laureate, performing in Te Reo Māori and English. She won her first NZ Music Award at the age of 15, and the awards have snowballed since. Her first five original albums all reached NZ’s Top 40 Album Chart. Maisey’s 2020 album Ngā Mata o te Ariki Tāwhirimātea comprises waiata depicting each of the nine stars of Matariki.

14 July, Great Hall

Delaney Davidson is renowned for his musicianship, distinctive voice, and unforgettable live presence. Join him and musicians Kommi Tamati-Elliffeas, Heather Webb, Mark Perkins, and Taipua Adams as they journey from the depths of despair and grief to find a way forward. From Te Ao Pō to Te Ao Marama. From the dark to the light. A collaborative musical performance presented with the kaupapa of Matariki in mind.

14 July, Lumière Cinemas

Māori once built waka from giant trees and sailed the vast Pacific by the stars. These arts were all but lost for 600 years. Then the stars re-aligned, and three men from far-flung islands revived the heritage of the greatest navigators on the planet, a Hawaiian, a Micronesian, and Hek Busby, “The Chief” from Aotearoa New Zealand. Whetū Mārama – Bright Star is the story of Sir Hekenukumai Ngaiwi Puhipi, aka Hek Busby, and his extraordinary life’s work.

7 July (ages 8–12)

Māori used to fly kites for a whole range of purposes, including signalling over long distances, predicting future events, and just for fun. You are invited to continue this ancient tradition and construct your own kite to fly during the Matariki period.

5 July (ages 5–10)

Also known as huhu, purorohu, turorohu, rangorango, wheororo, or bullroarers, this instrument creates a deep whirring sound when spun and is said to have connections to the rain. Learn the history and use of the purerehua and create your own to take home.

6 July (ages 5–12)

Discover how Polynesians sailed great distances without the use of navigational aids such as the compass, sextant, and GPS. Design and make your own traditional navigation stick chart to take home and hang on your wall.