Celebrating Matariki at O Wairoa Marae

Mānawatia a Matariki!

On Saturday we celebrated Matariki at O Wairoa Marae in Howick.

Marking the Māori new year, Matariki is a time for honouring those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki, gathering together to give thanks for what we have, and looking forward to the promise of a new year.

Before Matariki had risen we gathered around a firepit to remember those who had passed. Despite the early hour, there was a good turnout from the community and it was wonderful to see the diversity acknowledged with representation from across the community, including our friends at Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple. The Howick Local Board was represented by Chair Bruce Kendall, Deputy Kai Zeng, and Members Adele White, Jack Collings, and John Spiller, and me.

After kai to clear tapu (sacredness) and provide important fuel for the rest of the day, we headed to the waka! Buses took us to Whitford where we were given life jackets and trained in how to use the hoe (paddle), including chants to keep us in time. The Howick Local Board was represented by Chair Bruce Kendall and I. I've heard the whakataukī (proverb) 'he waka eke noa' ('we're in this together') and it was brought alive as we paddled across the water together. It took time and practice, but when we got our timing right we flew across the water. After nearly two hours, we arrived onto Howick Beach, welcomed by a crowd of people. Hard to describe how incredible it was to see and hear the welcome. A perfect celebration of the inclusive and diverse community we have the privilege of living in.

We returned to O Wairoa Marae for a powhiri for guests and community. I represented the Howick Local Board, welcoming our guests to our celebration. After more kai (including delicious hangi), we explored the stalls and artworks on display. It was wonderful to share this experience with friends and whanau, as well as meeting new people all day. It was a long day, and physically exhausting, but I was filled with optimism and hope for the coming year.

Thank you to everyone who was involved in organising this wonderful celebration.