Nga Mihi Nui O Te Tau Hou!

The celebration of Puaka/Matariki - the Maori New Year will provide an exciting array of events for Dunedin residents over a two week period from 13 - 28 June.

The Otepoti Matariki Steering Committee, the DCC and Maori Participation Working Party have collaborated to co-ordinate these events, which will begin with Oi-Atamira Dance and Theatre workshops and free entry to the Otago Museum Starlab.

There will be story-telling at play-centres and libraries, a wearable arts show, Kapa Haka performance, a return of the well established Marae Idol to be held at Araiteuru Marae and also the very controversial Oi 2009 performance and film fest at the Academy Theatre. Star viewing at the Beverley Begg Observatory acknowledges 2009 as the International year of Astronomy. The Otago Astronomical Association will lead a night and a pre-dawn viewing with speakers and presentations.

Whanau and different organisations in Dunedin have held Maori New Year celebrations for many years now and with increasing acceptance and exposure, there is momentum for a wider acceptance and participation. Through numerous initiatives the Maori New Year is well recognised. With discussion about Matariki becoming a public holiday, Tourism NZ profiling, Maori Television broadcasts, schools and pre-schools adjusting curriculums, and city councils backing major events over the years, Matariki is becoming firmly established.

The rising of Puaka and Matariki, the first full and/or new moon and the significance of their positioning in the universe honour the same time of year as the Winter Solstice, giving a connection to the Dunedin Midwinter Carnival.

More event details are available on the DCC Puaka/Matariki website. Nga mihi o te tau hou. Happy New Year!

Contact details

Contact Reitu Cassidy, Matariki Co-ordinator on 03 477 4000.

Last reviewed: 12 Jun 2009 3:14pm