Matariki celebrations dazzle for a second weekend

Polynesian Pearls Performing Arts at last night's Matariki Whānau Festival at Flaxmere Park. Photo/Duncan Brown

Thousands braved a cool evening to be dazzled by fireworks at a Matariki event in Flaxmere last night.

The spectacle, at Flaxmere Park, was part of Ngāti Kahungunu's annual Matariki Whānau Festival which kicked off last week.

Another show will be held at the Napier Soundshell tonight.

Organiser Te Rangi Huata said Flaxmere's event was popular and he was looking forward to a good night in Napier.

"There had been a lot of interest beforehand."

Thousands were expected at both events with people being able to experience fireworks, enjoy food and watch performances.

"We try to do the same thing each year.

"People come to share food and enjoy each other's company... also the fireworks.

"Our fireworks are as good as, if not better than, anywhere else."

The weather for this weekend was perfect and a nice change from earlier in the week, he said.

More than 200 people attended the opening of the annual Matariki Whānau Festival at Te Aute College last Friday.

Other Matariki Whānau Festival events will be held at Wairoa Community Centre on June 22, Frederick Wise Park in Wainuiomata on June 30, Dannevirke Showgrounds on July 27 and Henley Lake Park in Masterton on July 28.

Visit Ngāti Kahungunu's Facebook page for more information.

Pātaka, an exhibition celebrating Matariki, is also being held at the Hastings Community Art Gallery from June 5 to 16.

Matariki (Pleiades) is a group of seven stars that appear on the eastern horizon in the pre-dawn sky from late May to June each year.