Tai Tokerau/Northland invites you to celebrate Matariki in our region. Excitement is building as the region gets set to enjoy over 50 confirmed Matariki events.
'Matariki' is the Maori name for a cluster of stars that is visible with the naked eye in June/July each year. Traditionally, the first new moon following the sighting of 'Matariki' in the pre-dawn sky heralds the beginning of the New Year.
Matariki is a time to celebrate the abundance of food that has been stored for winter, a time to honor those who are no longer with us, and a time to celebrate new beginnings.
Make a long weekend of it and check out some of the fabulous Matariki events being held in Tai Tokerau during June. Art exhibitions, star gazing, wananga/workshops, cultural tours, museum displays, carving and kete making competitions "“ there's a Matariki event for everyone to enjoy.
A particular highlight of this year's Matariki celebrations will occur at dawn on June 16th, the day when Matariki is first visible to the naked eye this year. A new sculpture by Manos Nathan will be unveiled at the Dargaville I-Site. The sculpture, called 'He Tohu O Nga Hau E Wha' has been commissioned by Tai Tokerau Maori and Cultural Tourism Association and the Kaipara District Council for Matariki.
Take a break and experience Matariki in sub-tropical Tai Tokerau.
For a full events listing and more information about the meaning of Matariki and how it can be celebrated go to www.taitokerau.co.nz. Events will be updated regularly.
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