As Aotearoa prepares to celebrate Matariki, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei is once again inviting people from all walks of life to come together and embrace the values, traditions and meaning of the Māori New Year.
Through Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone, the iwi is leading one of the country’s largest Matariki programmes, creating opportunities for communities across Tāmaki Makaurau to connect with te ao Māori and celebrate a uniquely Aotearoa occasion.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei spokesperson Melz Huata-Lucas says the event reflects the spirit of bringing people together, honouring both the cultural significance of Matariki and the diversity of the communities that now call Auckland home.
The name Herenga Waka refers to a place where many waka are tied together, symbolising unity, connection and collective purpose. Organisers say the programme is designed to create a welcoming environment where everyone can participate, learn and reflect, regardless of their background.
Making Matariki accessible to all remains a key priority. Since becoming a public holiday, Matariki has grown into a national celebration, but Māori leaders say it is important that people understand the deeper meanings behind the occasion rather than viewing it simply as another day off.
At its heart, Matariki is a time to remember those who have passed, celebrate the present and plan for the future. It is a period of reflection, gratitude and renewal that has been observed by Māori for generations.
One of the most significant events within the programme is Hautapu ā Motu, a traditional ceremony that acknowledges the Matariki stars through karakia, remembrance and the offering of food. The ceremony provides an opportunity for communities to reconnect with ancient knowledge and understand the relationship between people, the environment and the celestial world.
For many participants, Hautapu serves as a powerful reminder of the values that underpin Matariki, including whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga.
This year’s celebrations will feature a range of cultural experiences, performances, educational activities and community events designed to encourage participation and deepen understanding of Māori traditions.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei hopes those attending will leave with a stronger appreciation of the significance of Matariki and a greater sense of connection to one another.
Organisers say the celebration is ultimately about bringing people together, strengthening community bonds and creating space for reflection at a time of year that holds special meaning for Māori.
As the stars of Matariki rise once again, Tāmaki Makaurau is preparing to embrace a celebration that honours the past, celebrates the present and looks forward to the future.
