Matariki events in the Selwyn District
Matariki signals the Māori New Year and is a time of celebration and renewal. It begins with the mid-winter rising of the Matariki star cluster. Come along to celebrate Matariki at one of the events in the Selwyn District.
Join a magical evening celebrating Matariki with your whānau! Enjoy stunning light displays, captivating kapa haka performances, live music, storytelling, and interactive activities. Celebrate the Māori New Year in a vibrant atmosphere filled with culture, connection, and creativity. All ages welcome.
Date: Thursday 19th June 2025.
Time: Drop in from 5pm.
Location: Rolleston Town Centre (green space behind Te Ara Ātea).
Cost: FREE.
Join Kāi Tahu musician and Arts Laureate Ariana Tikao for a special night of Taonga Puoro. Ariana will start the evening with an introduction to these unique ancestral instruments of Aotearoa, demonstrating their sounds. Then she will invite people to relax and be immersed in the mesmerising voices of her taonga, while she sings waiata and recites her moving poetry based on the stories of local pūrākau and places. A night not to be missed! All ages welcome.
Date: Friday 13th June 2025.
Time: 6.30 to 7.30pm.
Location: Te Ara Ātea.
Cost: $10 for library members, $20 for non-members. Bookings required.
Join members of Te Kāhui Hono, a collective of Selwyn kairaraka (weavers), as they share their knowledge and expertise of the taonga that is raraka (Māori weaving). During this workshop they will kōrero (discuss) the significance of raraka and demonstrate and assist you in weaving a seamless harakeke kono (a small square basket), utilising elements of raraka plaiting techniques. 16+ years.
Date: Saturday 14th June 2025.
Time: 1 to 4pm.
Location: Te Ara Ātea.
Cost: $15 for library members, $30 for non-members. Bookings required.
Celebrate the Māori New Year with an unforgettable evening under the stars! Enjoy a 60-minute stargazing tour led by experts from Christchurch Astro Tours. Discover the wonders of the night sky and learn about the stars, planets, and constellations. 10+ years.
Date: Friday 20th June 2025.
Time: 7 to 10.30pm.
Location: Greenpark Memorial Community Centre.
Cost: $35 per person plus booking fee.
Pop down to your local community centre for some Matariki crafting fun! 4+ years.
Details:
- Monday 23rd June 2025 (3.30 to 4.30pm): Lincoln Event Centre.
- Thursday 26th June 2025 (3.30 to 4.30pm): West Melton Community and Recreation Centre
Cost: $5 per person. Bookings required.
Join musical duo Loopy Tunes, sisters Leah and Siu, for a session of interactive bilingual music, stories and fun! They both love what they do and are looking forward to (once again) celebrating Matariki with you! Whānau-friendly.
Date: Saturday 28th June 2025.
Time: 11 to 11.40am.
Location: Te Ara Ātea.
Cost: FREE.