Matariki countdown begins

Tauranga Art Gallery visitor host Teurin-Sophia Marsters straddles two exhibitions, a groundbreaking display of ceramics by members of Nga Kaihanga Uku and seven stunning garments created by fashion designer and flax artist Shona Tawhiao. Photo / George Novak

Four days of special workshops and displays culminating in the first day of the Matariki Maori New Year start today at the Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park.

Organised by Te Puna Rangiriri Trust, the eight events held in marquees have attracted a lot of interest from schools, with more than a thousand students expected to take part.

Each day from June 15 to 18 will start with a symbolic hikoi or walk up to the summit of Mauao led by traditional navigator Jack Thatcher, followed by eight workshops and displays until the new moon rises on Thursday to signify the arrival of Matariki.

Mr Thatcher, who has handed over the mantle of organising Tauranga's Matariki celebrations to Awhine August, said strong winds disrupted the erection of the smaller marquees and they were planning to put up the rest this morning.

"The weather has not done us any favours."

The new moon coincides with the rising of the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades that herald the start of the return to warmer times following Sunday's solstice.

Mr Thatcher said there were lots of messages associated with Matariki, including to celebrate new beginnings, learn from the past year's mistakes and to carry on with the good things of life.

He said not much happened in winter so Matariki brought more joy into that time of the year.

Major events celebrating Matariki will include a fashion show of contemporary Maori art and performances in the Tauranga Art Gallery on Thursday, Matariki and the Night Sky presentation at the Fergusson Park observatory on June 26, a kids' art studio at the gallery on June 27 and kids' art clay studios from July 6 to July 10, Te Reo language and storytelling sessions on June 29 and July 1, an evening of stories at Papamoa Library on July 16, and kite day at Fergusson Park on July 11.

MasterChef NZ winners Kasey and Karena Bird will also be at Papamoa Library from 11.30am to 1.30pm on July 18.