Cultural showcase at matariki festival

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Hot on the heels of receiving the mantle to host the 2016 Te Tai Tokerau Kapahaka Festival, Otamatea High School is planning to hold a Matariki Festival based on the theme ‘A New Year, a New Start’ on Thursday June 18, 6pm, in the Otamatea High School hall.

Entertainment will include kapa haka and a variety of performances from local schools Waipu, Kaiwaka, Te Kura Kaupapa o Ngaringaomatariki, Otamatea and Rodney College, and feature performances from renowned local singers Tasha Perret and Jasmine Sampson.

Matariki is the Maori name for the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades (or more commonly The Seven Sisters.) The pre-dawn rise of Matariki can be seen in the last few days of May every year. Matariki literally means the 'eyes of god' (mata ariki) or 'little eyes' (mata riki).

Matariki is important because traditionally the coming season's crop was related to the visibility of the stars in that year. It was also seen as an important time for family to gather and reflect on the past and the future. Today Matariki is important as a means of remembrance of the traditions of yesteryear and as a reminder to ensure we continue to give respect to the land that we both live and rely on.

Entry tp the Otamate High School event is only a gold coin donation and kai and drinks will be on sale on the night. Bring the entire family for a fun low cost night out.

TRADITION: Kapa Haka from local schools will be a highlight of this year’s Matariki Festival.