Market shines with Matariki celebration

Rotorua Racco's Japanese taiko drummers had Night Market goers stopping in their tracks. Photo / Ben Fraser

Matariki celebrations are in full swing as Rotorua's popular Night Market put on a show for the traditional Maori New Year.

Te Puia's cultural team opened the street celebrations with a pohiri last night, followed by a brief talk about Matariki.

Rotorua Racco's Japanese taiko drummers and Cook Islands dance group captivated the crowd with their performances.

The Hits Fire and Ice festival's lantern-making workshop team also had a lantern procession in the marketplace to celebrate Matariki and promote the Ignite Lantern Parade taking place at the Village Green on July 26.

Croatian fritule (doughnut) stall owner Nadia Christensen said people loved coming to the Night Market and the Matariki celebration was another drawcard.

"No matter what the weather, we always have a good number of people coming out to enjoy what's on offer."

Ngareta Patea, from Wanganui, said it was great to see the Night Market celebrating the Maori tradition.

"It is a great opportunity for people to learn more about Matariki and its cultural significance.

"The opening pohiri really captured people's attention and I am looking forward to the lantern display and other cultural performances."

This is the third year the Night Market has held Matariki celebrations.

Aunty Doa's Hangi stall owner Huia Poipoi said Matariki helped promote Maori products.

"Having the celebration each year has definitely sparked more interest.

"Both locals and tourists are starting to ask questions about its significance."

Matariki is the Maori name for the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades. It rises once a year in mid-winter.

For many Maori it heralds the traditional start of a new year.

Matariki literally means the "eyes of God" or "little eyes".