Matariki Celebration in the Māra (Garden)

Nau mai, haere mai.

You are invited to join us in celebrating Matariki, signaling the beginning of Te Tau Hou - the Māori new year.

Beginning before the sun rises, Rob Small (Ngāpuhi) will lead us in a special Matariki celebration of lifting kumara, sending up wishes to Hiwa-i-te-Rangi - the wishing star - and sharing kai.

You will have the opportunity to write your wishes or aspirations for the new year on a piece of paper. These can then be thrown into a fire and the wishes will rise up to the heavens on the smoke and heat to Hiwa-i-te-Rangi.

Beginning at 6.30am to catch the rising of the stars before sunrise. We aim to be finished by 9.30am, though you're welcome to stick around and help out in the garden.

All ages and stages welcome - including those who have never visited our garden before.