This year’s Matariki public holiday falls on Friday 14th July and there are some beautiful opportunities to celebrate in our community.
Hau Ariki Marae is offering a unique opportunity to experience a noho (stay over) at the marae on Thursday 13 July to then rise early to enjoy the rising of Matariki.
Starting with a powhiri welcome onto the marae, the evening will include children’s activities, waiata and a talk about the Dark Sky, Matariki and its significance. There is the opportunity to simply join in the evening event or the dawn rising ceremony.
All details can be found on eventfinder where you can register your attendance.
In Considine Park the Wairarapa Library Service StoryWalk® is another way for families to learn about Matariki.
The current book is Daniel’s Matariki Feast by Rebecca Beyer and Linley leading up to Matariki. It weaves together learning about Matariki and acceptance into a school community.
Join Daniel as he discovers the meaning of Matariki through korero with his whanau and classmates. Christine Ross’ illustrations are delightful. You can read the story in Te Reo, Chinese or English. There is even a Spiced Pumpkin Cake recipe for you to make and share.
Pop into a WLS Library on Thursday, 13th of July and make a night vision torch to use when locating the Matariki stars!
The park will also host the Matariki Glow Walk over the holiday weekend.
An opportunity to learn more about each star in the Matariki cluster.
Nine art work panels will be installed into Considine park. These pieces of art are a collaboration thanks to Izzy Joy art, Martinborough School, Kahutara School & Ventana Kids art class.
The art will glow during the glow walk sessions and there will be a handy app that details what each star represents.
There are also some fun daily additions to enjoy. Chris from “Under The Stars” will be there on Friday 14th for star gazing (clear skies permitting!).
On Saturday 15th we have Nells Glow candy floss and glow face painting thanks to Bec from Ventana. For more event updates follus Matariki Glow Walk event on Facebook.
