As Matariki celebrations continue across Aotearoa, preparations are gathering pace for the MAHUTA Matariki Concert, an evening dedicated to Māori music, storytelling and community connection.
The concert, to be held on 18 July as part of the wider Matariki Herenga Waka celebrations, has been curated by acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician Majic Pāora, who says the event is about creating a space where Māori voices, creativity and identity can be celebrated together.
The kaupapa of MAHUTA is to bring people together through music while honouring the values of Matariki—reflection, remembrance, celebration and hope for the future.
This year’s programme brings together established Māori performers alongside emerging artists, creating opportunities for experienced musicians to share the stage with the next generation of talent.
The carefully curated line-up reflects the richness and diversity of Māori music, blending contemporary sounds with storytelling traditions that have long been central to te ao Māori.
Beyond entertainment, the concert aims to strengthen cultural identity and inspire whānau and rangatahi by showcasing Māori excellence in the performing arts.
Music has long played an important role in preserving history, expressing identity and connecting communities, and MAHUTA continues that tradition by creating a platform where stories can be shared across generations.
The event is also intended to support emerging artists by providing opportunities to perform before new audiences while building relationships within Aotearoa’s music community.
Organisers hope MAHUTA will continue to grow in the years ahead, becoming a signature event on the Matariki calendar and helping nurture future generations of Māori musicians, composers, storytellers and performers.
As Matariki continues to evolve as a national celebration, events such as MAHUTA highlight the importance of indigenous creativity, language and cultural expression in bringing communities together and celebrating the unique identity of Aotearoa.
The concert promises an evening of music, storytelling and connection, reflecting both the legacy of those who have gone before and the aspirations of those who will carry Māori arts into the future.
#MAHUTA #Matariki #MatarikiHerengaWaka #MajicPāora #MāoriMusic #TeAoMāori #Waiata #Whānau #Rangatahi #Arts #Culture #Aotearoa #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews
