Matariki Tauranga Moana 2021

Matariki Tauranga Moana celebrations are in full swing this June with a great programme of events to welcome the Maori New Year.

Matariki is a special time in the Maori calendar. This year we celebrate ‘Matariki Marama Nui’ – sharing stories of Tauranga Moana from 7 Piripi (June) – 11 Hongongoi (July).

Residents and visitors will be spoilt for choice with more than 40 events across Tauranga Moana. The Matariki programme began this week with local traditional navigator Jack Thatcher sharing his knowledge about Matariki at the summit of Mauao.

Carlo Ellis, Manager, Strategic Maori Engagement at Tauranga City Council says that the beauty of Matariki is that it is a kaupapa Maori that is shared with the community.

“Tangata whenua set the focus each year and lead the cultural teachings, while a range of community initiatives bring their own events alive to form a calendar of activities with something for everyone,” says Carlo.

“Whether you are interested in culture, astronomy, story-telling, navigation, arts, social activities or all of the above, it’s a real invitation to celebrate Tauranga Moana,” he says.

“Tauranga City Council is proud to support this collaborative initiative for another year.”

Matariki will end with a panel discussion on July 10 at The Tauranga Art Gallery about Te Iwa o Matariki. The panel will discuss their personal connections with the constellation and its importance on their thinking. Panel members include Tawhai Rickard who concurrently presents The Misadventures of Te Kuri at the gallery.

In between this, there will be a number of exhibitions, live demonstrations, workshops and family-friendly events for all to enjoy.