Why Matariki matters

Go

Green Expo Christchurch

Sunday, August 6, 5pm

Christchurch Arena www.vegansociety.org.nz/event/ go-green-expo-2

New Zealand’s largest green living and sustainable lifestyle show is back and is, once again, the one stop shop for everything you need to live a sustainable life. From eco home and building to food and beverages, this event has it all. Organic products, health and wellness, beauty and personal care, living and much more, this event is not to be missed.

Canterbury Tech

Summit 2023

Tuesday, September 5, 8am

Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre www.christchurchnz.com/see-do/events/ canterbury-tech-summit-2023?

A full day conference that is set to be thought provoking and inspirational, the tech summit gives people ample time to network. With live speakers and collective knowledge, those interested in the technology industry or those within the sector will have a great day. It’s a time for the Canterbury tech community to get together, collaborate, share knowledge and discuss how to accelerate the growth of the tech sector in New Zealand.

The Arts Centre Market

Sunday, September 10, 10am

The Arts Centre www.christchurchnz.com/see-do/events/ the-arts-centre-market?session=127473

For a proper Christchurch experience, visit the arts centre market where you will find local, artisan made goods and treasures. Meet the makers and explore what Christchurch craftspeople have to offer. Expect a range of delicious foods, treats and drinks alongside vintage clothes, handmade products and so much more. Held in the stunning art centre, be wowed at every turn.

Mānawatia a Matariki — Happy Māori New Year!

Matariki is a special occasion, a holiday distinct to Aotearoa New Zealand, a time to reflect, celebrate, and prepare for the year ahead. 2023 marks the second year Matariki is a public holiday, falling on Fridays from late May to mid-July.

Here’s everything you need to know about July 14th, Matariki 2023.

Matariki is a star cluster that appears in early morning skies during New Zealand’s midwinter months. Well-known globally by many names, Matariki is one of the brightest clusters in the sky. Historically, the Matariki stars were closely tied to planting, harvesting, and hunting. If the stars were clear and bright, it signalled a season of abundance.

This year’s Matariki awareness campaign theme is ‘Matariki Kāinga Hokia – Matariki calls you home’. This is about allowing Matariki to inspire you to reconnect with friends and whanau, and return to the places you call home.

Mātauranga Māori – ancestral knowledge – tells us that Matariki is a time to honour those we have lost, gather together to give thanks, and look forward to the promise of the new year. As such, be aware of your unique timeline every Māori new year; your past, present and future.

Matariki is one of the closest star clusters to Earth. It contains hundreds of stars, but only nine are visible to the naked eye. To find Matariki, look to the northeast horizon before sunrise. Search for Tautoru or Orion’s Belt; a distinct line of stars. North of these stars sits Matariki, about as wide as Tautoru is long. Matariki festivities traditionally involved lighting ritual fires, honouring ancestors, and celebrating life. Today people gather, share kai, and mindfully relax. There are many ways to celebrate Matariki in 2023, with countless events and activations set for Māori New Year.

Tārama Mai is a free Matariki light festival experience in Ōtautahi Christchurch, with a range of lighting installations, projections, and illuminated artworks to experience the joy and wonder of Tārama Mai.

Te Matatiki Toi Ora - The Arts Centre – is hosting a series of Matariki celebrations from July 3 to July 20. This features winter markets, maker workshops, stargazing, and cultural showcases. Visit www.artscentre.org. nz for more information.

Matariki in the Zone will mark the Māori new year with food, music, activities, and a week-long trail lighting display. Kids big and small can enjoy wood-carving, flax-weaving, marshmallow-roasting and more. The hāngi will be raised at 4:30pm, but head down to the Richmond community garden at 2:30pm onwards from July 15. CT

By Jamie Quinn