Matariki 2024
![]() | Mānawatia a Matariki! |
![]() | Kanopy Film: Whetū Mārama — Bright StarSaturday 29 June, 1.30–3pm, Te Ara Ātea Learn how Sir Hekenukumai Ngaiwi Puhipi reclaimed the lost art of traditional Māori wayfinding and voyaging the sea by navigating the stars. PG. |
![]() | Navigating the Pacific with Canterbury MuseumTuesday 2 July, 3.30–4.30pm, Leeston Library and Service Centre Discover how Māori journeyed across the Pacific Ocean without modern technology, then build your own navigational aid from LEGO®. 5–13 years. Free to attend, bookings required. |
![]() | Recreational FishingThursday 4 July, 6.30–7.30pm Join Peter Langlands, of Wild Capture, as he shares his knowledge and experience of recreational sea and freshwater fishing. 14+ years. Free to attend, bookings required. |
![]() | Raraka Kete Wānaka / Kete Weaving Workshop **FULLY BOOKED**Saturday 6 July, 12.30–3.30pm Join members of Te Kāhui Hono, as they share their knowledge and expertise of Māori weaving. Craft a harakeke kete utilising plaiting techniques. 12+ years. $15 library members, $30 non-members. |
About Matariki
Ko Matariki kei runga, ko te tohu tēnā o te tau!
Matariki signals the Māori New Year and is considered a time of celebration and renewal. Matariki begins with the rising of the Matariki star cluster during the last quarter of the lunar calendar of Pipiri (roughly mid-winter), most easily seen before dawn on the Northeastern horizon.
Customarily, Matariki was celebrated by the lighting of ceremonial fires, gifts and offerings, and celebrations to farewell the dead, honour ancestors, and to celebrate the coming year.