Māruawai Matariki Celebration Back for Third Year Running

The successful Māruawai Matariki Celebration is back, and better than ever. Celebrating Matariki, the event runs on the Public Holiday, Friday 28th June, from 1:00pm to 7:30 pm.

Held at the Southern Field Days site Waimumu in the Agri Centre, thousands of people attended last year.

This year, the event will feature nearly 20 kapahaka groups, bands, and dancers performing on the stage throughout the day. Alongside that will be kai in the form of food trucks, children’s entertainment, games, and bouncy castles.

The event is organised and run by a range of volunteers from around the district. Committee member Kylie Aitken describes it as one that not only celebrates the cultural reason behind Matariki but also provides an opportunity for local kids and teens to shine.

“Our free whānau friendly event allows tamariki (children) and rangitahi (young people) to share their talents with the community in a professional setting, with professional staging, lights and audio, which is a unique opportunity in our district”, Ms Aitken said.

“Not only that, but we have made the event accessible to all, for all ages and abilities, and thanks to the indoor venue, people can stay warm despite the cold winter weather”

The event will culminate this year with an impressive laser show outside the venue.

‘It has been great to see the event grow and establish itself as a wonderful family-friendly event that celebrates all things Kiwi’, Kylie Aitken said.

The event focuses on encouraging the Matariki kaupapa remembrance, celebrating the present and looking to the future.

This event is organised through the efforts of Hokonui Rūnanga, volunteers, the Lower Mataura Valley Community of Learning Kāhui Ako, Pomāhaka Community of Learning Kāhui Ako and the Gore Community of Learning Kāhui Ako.

The committee has worked hard to keep the event free for all, thanks to a range of sponsors; however, Koha will be accepted on the day.