Reporter Taromi is in Napier, where families from all over have turned out for the brand new Matariki tradition of gathering together and lighting bonfires on the beach.
Hawke’s Bay Matariki events kick off this week, offering celebrations and opportunities for communities to come together, reflect on the past and set intentions for the year ahead.
Events will be held across the region to mark the rising of the star cluster Matariki Pleiades, with thousands of visitorsexpected to participate.
Chairman of Ngāti Kahungunu iwi, Bayden Barber, said the events provided a great opportunity to get out and about in the winter and celebrate.
“I love to see all our people out, it’s an opportunity to celebrate Matariki, but also our culture, our language, our whakapapa.”
He said the increase in popularity could be attributed to the national public holiday and a focus on teaching it in schools.
“People are exposed, they have heard some of the waiata and can sing along together.”
A Matariki event at the Hawke's Bay Showgrounds in Hastings in 2023.
Where to go this Matariki
Hastings District Council will celebrate at Waiaroha, Heretaunga Water Discovery Centre, Hastings on Thursday from 6pm to 9pm on the corner of Southampton St East and Hastings St South.
On Friday, Hawke’s Bay Racecourse will open to the public for Kai Hau Kai Matariki, a feast of kai, entertainment and fireworks. Free entry to a vibrant indoor market will showcase the beauty of Māori craftsmanship and healing traditions from 2pm to 8pm, with parking on Market St.
Night sky enthusiasts will be able to put navigation skills to the test with the Matariki Star Hunt at the Hastings War Memorial Library from Monday until Sunday, June 29.
Matariki beach bonfires return on Saturday night, set to light up the coast. Choose your own spot or join organisers for storytelling and lanterns from 6pm at 546 Marine Parade, near the National Aquarium of New Zealand.
In Napier on Friday June 27, the council invites residents to join together for an evening of fun in from 5.30pm to 8.30pm at the Napier Sound Shell, Marine Parade and Tennyson St.
On June 27 the MTG in Napier will also be open late for visitors to explore the galleries, hunt for hidden stars throughout the museum and get hands-on with a star-making activity.
Correction: An initial version of this story said Napier council’s Sound Shell and MTG events were on Friday June 20. These have been updated to the correct dates, June 27.
