Celebrate Maori New Year Maatariki Festival From 21 Pipri /June to 21Hongongoi /21 July 2012 New Zealand
Aotearoa's very own New Year
History of Matariki
Matariki has always been an important time in the Maori calendar.
Heralded by the rising of the star constellation known as Matariki, the Maori New Year signalled a time for connecting with, and giving thanks to the land, sea and sky. It was a time for the community to come together to farewell those departed and acknowledge the year gone by. It was also a time to turn to the future, welcoming the new generation to the world and planning for the year ahead.In addition Matariki was a time when people would gather to share kai, rituals, entertainment, hospitality and learnings
Matariki celeberations were popular before the arrival of the Europeans in New Zealand and they continued into the 1900s. Gradually they dwindled, with one of the last traditional festivals recorded in the 1940s.
At the beginning of the 21st century Matariki celebrations were revived and have become a special time of the year to respect the land we live on, celebrate the unique place we live in and continue to share and grow with each other
Maatariki Festival Celebrate the opening weekend of Matariki Festival 2012 with this spectacular one-night-only event. Date: 23 June Venue: TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre, Genesis Energy Theatre Make sure you check out Matariki Dawn Karaki Date and time: 21 June, 6am on the : Summit of Maungakiekie (One Tree Hill) Cornwall Park, Royal Oak, Auckland Free and is Suitable for: Families or go to a free workshops that teach the significance of Kapa Haka and Matariki Date: 16 and 20 June Venue: Barnett Hall, Auckland libaries Throughout the month of Matariki, come to life with over 150 events that will inspire, delight and engage you and your family. or come witness compelling dance works inspired by Aotearoa's history, legends and contemporary issues. Date: 21, 22, 23 June, 17, 19 July with the Atamira dance company at varoius venues
There is many great actiivties for locals and international visitors alike to enjoy For more information on a lot more events on during the Matariki celeberations Aotearoa's very own New Year go to there web site http://www.matarikifestival.org.nz/ For accommodation and travelling advice when vistiing new zealand Aotearoa go to http://www.nzonline.org.nz/nzo/destinations
