The Bay of Plenty area is preparing for a busy Matariki weekend, with events planned in Tauranga City, Mount Maunganui, Pāpāmoa, Te Puke, and Katikati on Friday, June 28.
In Katikati, the Community Centre is inviting locals to gather at dawn to view the Matariki star cluster from Park Road Reserve. The event, which starts at 4.30am, is hosted by eight community organisations and includes a free dawn service, stage performances, and warm drinks and refreshments. A pōhutukawa tree will also be planted.
Te Puke’s Jubilee Park is hosting Te Kete o Matariki from 10am-4pm. The event will feature performances from reggae group House of Shem, Matariki Allstars, and traditional Māori instrument players Te Kahui Pōuro o Tapuika. The event will also showcase Māori food and non-competitive kapa haka performances.
Pāpāmoa Plaza is hosting ‘Light Up The Waterway’ from 5pm-10pm. The event will kick off with a welcoming ceremony and include kapa haka performances and live music. The event aims to educate the community about the significance of Matariki and celebrate shared heritage.
In Tauranga City, the Mānawatia a Matariki – Matariki Star Trail is taking place in various locations until July 1. There is also a Matariki-themed sculpture trail on Tauranga Waterfront, which uses augmented reality technology to bring digital artworks to life.
Mount Maunganui is hosting the Matariki Maumaharatanga Ceremony at the Mauao Summit from 6am-8am. The event is a tribute to departed loved ones, with their names being called out as their spirits rise alongside the Matariki cluster.
For more information on Matariki events in the Bay of Plenty area, visit www.bayofplentynz.com/matariki.
