Matariki at Matakana Village 2024

In collaboration with Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust and Unity Collection, we’ve created a packed four-hour programme that embraces and honours Aotearoa’s unique cultural heritage.

Highlights include:

• 🌟 Timatanga (opening address) by Ngāti Manuhiri kaumatua Ringi Brown

• Powerful kapa haka performances by Matakana and Snells Beach primary schools and Mahurangi College, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Matakana River

• 🎶 Live performances by renowned Māori musician and bass player Richard Murray

• 🍽️ Delicious kai including whitebait and paua fritters, kumara soup, mussel fritters, and more

• 🛍️ Shopping for Māori crafts from independent artists

• 🌿 Hands-on Māori weaving (raranga) workshops (gold coin koha)

• 🎨 Matariki-inspired face painting for the young ones (gold coin koha)

• 🗣️ Guest speakers from Ngāti Manuhiri sharing insights into the cultural significance of Matariki

Start your day with a free screening of "Whetū Mārama – Bright Star" at Matakana Cinema at 9am (tickets essential).

• The Matakana Village shops are joining in the celebration with additional special features such as:

• A special exhibition of works by fine art surfboard sculptor Aaron Kereopa at Unity Collection

• Highlights of Māori book authors at Matakana Bookshop

• A kawakawa tea station and in-store poetry reading at Tea & Tonic

• Freshly baked rewana bread from Ringawera Baker and Matariki Bon Bons from Honest Chocolat

All koha raised on the day will be donated to Mahurangi College kapa haka group to assist with their fundraising efforts.

Matariki at Matakana Village is more than just an event; it’s an opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate as a community. Save the date and join us for a day of delicious food, music and community spirit at the Matariki Matakana Village Farmers' Market.