Matariki 2023
Matariki is a star cluster in the sky and its arrival has a wonderful meaning; it is a time to spend with whānau (family) and friends, to reflect on the past year, and to look forward to new beginnings ahead. It is a time of remembrance, joy, and peace.
For Matariki 2023, we held several events around the country, and our Regional Team really enjoyed getting out there and meeting new caregivers, and whānau, and reconnecting again.
Check out some highlights from the events below!
Canterbury
One of our Canterbury Regional Coordinators, Jared, worked in collaboration with VOYCE Whakarongo Mai to put on an evening jam packed with activities such as harakeke (flax) weaving and colouring in, accompanied by delicious kai, and even a trip to the hot pools!
With over 130 caregivers and tamariki in attendance, this was our largest Matariki celebration to date, and we are looking forward to making it even bigger and better in 2024.
“As a caregiver who had never attended the Matariki Tūhono event before, I must say that it was a truly remarkable and eye-opening experience. The event provided a profound opportunity to learn about and immerse myself in Māori culture and traditions. The organisers did an exceptional job of creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making me feel included and valued as part of the community. I was particularly impressed with the emphasis on upholding the mana of tamariki and the focus on family connections. It was heartwarming to witness the deep-rooted sense of whānau and the care provided to children in a healing environment.”
East Coast
Our Regional Coordinator for the East Coast Region, James, hosted a wonderful day of fun in Napier. His whānau prepared a beautiful hāngī lunch for everyone to enjoy together – check out the video to see the making of the hāngī!
Tamariki had fun colouring in and playing games on the basketball courts, whilst caregivers were able to relax and connect with one another. Ka pai!
Lower North
Caregiving whānau joined their Regional Coordinator, Ebony, and took part in some of the Matariki workshops that were hosted by Te Papa Museum in Wellington.
Tamariki created their own wakahuia (treaure box) and whetū (star) mobile, and enjoyed a musical performance. To finish the day, everyone relaxed over a lunch of fish and chips. Ka mau te wehi! (Awesome!)
“Thank you for all your mahi and awhi…we all had a mīharo time especially making our whaka huia and matariki mobiles.”