Matariki is based on early traditions, and something special for all New Zealanders to share. It connects us with our unique Maori heritage, nature and creative expression.
This year's Auckland regional festival hosts an exciting programme of over 50 events and activities at various venues from 5 June to 5 July. Many of these are free.Matariki is based on early traditions, and something special for all New Zealanders to share. It connects us with our unique Maori heritage, nature and creative expression.
This year's Auckland regional festival hosts an exciting programme of over 50 events and activities at various venues from 5 June to 5 July. Many of these are free.The festival lets people get involved, learn about Maori culture and try something new.
Matariki Festival regional coordinator Mei Hill says the festival is gaining popularity.
"It's heartening that so many people everywhere are interested in experiencing Maori culture - Matariki is the perfect way in.
"Matariki signals the beginning of a new cycle of life and a time to reflect on the previous year. It's a time to acknowledge Te Tau Hou (Maori new year)," she says.
The festival features short films, art exhibitions, concerts from many local artists, tree planting, traditional food, workshops and educational sessions.
Native Noise on Friday 4 July at 7.30pm
A concert featuring leading Kiwi musicians in the historic setting of the Auckland Town Hall. Performers include Kora, Katchafire, Tiki Taane, Ladi 6, DJ Poroufessor.
E Whitu Nga Whetu on Monday 28 June at 7.30pm
The Rauru artists collective presents an evening of star-gazing with a fine selection of Maori-inspired designer fashion, food and drinks. This spectacular showcase at Hopetoun Alpha will feature live entertainment including leading musicians, poets and designers.
Kupu Rere - Matariki Poetry Slam - 15 June
Registration: $10 - from 6pm
Door sales: $10 - from 6.30pm
Start time: 7.15pm
Open to poets and spoken word artists 18 years +.
Poems must have relevance to Matariki - Maori New Year.
Into The Light 25 June To 12 July Free
'Into the Light', a group exhibition curated by Charlotte Graham, explores the theme of light from a variety of indigenous perspectives. Artists include Natalie Couch, Gabrielle Belz, Michelle Lee and Charlotte Graham.
Artstation, 1 Ponsonby Road, Newton
Matariki Short Fuse 2008 - Maori Short Film Showcase
Thursday, 26 June, 7pm
Entry $8 / $6 Full/conc. Door sales only.
Nau Mai! Haere Mai! You are invited to attend a showcase of contemporary Maori short films, fresh from their premiere at the Wairoa Maori Film Festival 2008. Introduction by Bruce Hopkins.
Galatos, Galatos Street, Newton, Auckland
Matariki Short Fuse 2008 - Intersect Maori Animation
Thursday, 26 June, 9pm Free
We would like to invite you to attend a Maori short film showcase where Maori animation and digital animation visuals are paired with the sounds and grooves of Aotearoa.
Galatos, Galatos Street, Newton, Auckland
Phone: Barbara Procter 379 9922
Email: maorimovies@gmail.com
www.mic.org.nz
Matariki Playwrights Forum
Saturday, 28 June, Noon To 5pm Free
This workshop has been designed for those who are interested in creating Maori theatre to come together and enjoy an afternoon of workshops. Presentations include new Maori playwrights work, how to get funding and distribution. It's your chance to meet theatre leaders and the organisations that can help you develop your career.
Saturday, 28 June, Noon Free
Enjoy a reading from Grave Decisions by new playwright Ariki Spooner (Ngati Pahauwera/Nga Mahanga a Tairi). A family loses a mother and at her unveiling the secret history of the family is unveiled.
Directed by Rawiri Paratene (Nga Puhi/Te Rarawa).
Saturday, 28 June, 4pm Free
Reading from Nga Manurere by new playwright
Renae Maihi (Nga Puhi/Ngati Hine/Te Arawa/ Ngati Whakaue).
Maihi's Nga Manurere is about solo mothers, their hopes, their dreams, and their reality. Directed by Waimihi Hotere (Te Aupouri/Ngati Maniapoto/ Ngati Wai/Ngati Mahuta).
Limelight Room - Level 3 , Aotea Centre
Email: jenni@playmarket.org.nz
www.playmarket.org.nz/matarikiand_pasifika
Matariki Playwrights Forum - Writing For Radio Drama Workshop
Saturday, 29 June, 10am To 4pm Free
Have you ever thought about writing for radio?
Radio New Zealand and Playmarket are running a free writing for radio drama workshop as part of Matariki Playwrights Festival, open to all Maori and Pacific Island writers in Auckland.
Numbers are limited to 12 places, so get in quick!
Radio New Zealand, 171 Hobson Street, Auckland
To register email: jenni@playmarket.org.nz
www.playmarket.org.nz/matariki_and_pasifika
Contemporary Maori artwork
View the full programme of events.
Matariki Festival 2008 is supported by Auckland City Council in collaboration with Manukau, North Shore and Waitakere city councils, Creative New Zealand and the Arts Regional Trust through the regional Maori arts development reference group Toi Whenua.
05/06/08