Auckland Libraries are holding a number of free events from 20 June – 19 July to celebrate Matariki.
It will be a great opportunity for people from various backgrounds and ethnic groups to not only celebrate Matariki, but also to immerse themselves in different aspects of the Māori culture.
This year’s Matariki events held by Auckland libraries will include kapa haka performances, Māori art, raranga, rongoā workshops, kōrero pūrākau with mana whenua, Living Book sessions with Māori MPs, and Matariki star activities with astronomers.
Some event highlights are:
Central Auckland
Tamaki Writers Honour Matariki
Central City Library, Saturday 27 June, 9.15am – 3.30pm
This event will feature poets and writers as well as an open-mic session
Te Reo Wainene ō Tua: The Sweet Story of Yesteryear
Central City Library, 8, 9 and 10 July, 9am-12pm
Unique stories of Aotearoa will be told in Te Reo Māori
North Auckland
Matariki Kapa Haka Celebrations at Whangaparaoa Library
Wednesday 24 June, 12 noon - 1pm
Local school haka groups will perform to celebrate Matariki, otherwise known as the Māori New Year
West Auckland
Matariki kite-making workshop
Glen Eden Library, Saturday 18 July, 10am – 3pm
Those who attend this event will have the opportunity to learn different techniques to design artwork for kites. Full day workshop for ages 10 and above.
South Auckland
He Pātaka Kōrero - Living Book session – MP Marama Kahu Fox (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Porou)
Māngere Town Centre Library, Monday 29 June, 1:00pm-2:30pm
He Pātaka Kōrero – Living Book session – MP Peeni Ereatara Gladwyn Henare (Ngāti Hine, Ngāpuhi)
Te Matariki Clendon Library, Monday 22 June, 10:30am – 12:00pm