New events add to Matariki's sparkle in Tai Taokerau

6 June, 2007

DESTINATION NORTHLAND : MEDIA RELEASES 2007

Matariki events began on June 1 st with the successful opening of art exhibitions in Whangarei, Kerikeri, Kohukohu, and Waitangi. Workshops on kete and kite making were well attended in Waitangi and Russell . A moving community commemoration was held in Waipu to remember those loved ones who are buried in the Waipu cemetery.

We now have around 90 events taking place throughout June and new events are still being confirmed for Tai Tokerau's Matariki celebrations.

The Awanui Visitor Centre (at the intersection of SH10 and SH1 in Awanui) is joining in the region's Matariki celebrations with the opening of its new Te Ara Toi Gallery . The gallery will feature an exhibition called ‘Nga Wahine e Whitu from June 1st to July 26th. The visitor centre is open Monday-Sunday from 9.30am to 5.30pm.

Pete's Pioneer and Transport Museum . Kerikeri will host a memorable evening on June 16 th with guest speaker Hugh Rihiri (iwi monitor for the Kerikeri heritage bypass). There will be a hangi and bar facilities available and the Kaa whanau will peform kapa haka. The museum will also feature a kete and korowai exhibition. There are no door sales on the night. Tickets are $45 and are limited to 100. The event starts off at 5.30pm and runs through until 10.30pm.

The Dargaville Public Library will have a Matariki display from
June 10th -16th.

Kaikohe Public Library will host storyteller and Matariki Ambassador Lawrence Wharerau's ‘Stories from the bush hut' on June 20th at 10am. Maori myths and legends are modified whilst retaining their traditional stores of knowledge and brought to life by Lawrence, who is an experienced film and television actor.

Toi Kaipara Ki Te Tonga hosts an exhibition of Ngati Whatua artists at the Helensville War Memorial Hall on June 21 st (5-7pm), June 22nd (9am-8pm), June 23rd (9am-5pm), and June 24 th (9am-3pm).

Take a break and experience Matariki in sub-tropical Tai Tokerau.

Matariki' is the Maori name for a cluster of stars that is visible with the naked eye in June/July each year. Traditionally, the first new moon following the sighting of ‘Matariki' in the pre-dawn sky heralds the beginning of the New Year. This year Matariki is visible on June 16th and New Year's Day is on June 17th.

Matariki is a time to celebrate the abundance of food that has been stored for winter, a time to honour those who are no longer with us, and a time to celebrate new beginnings.