Media Release May 2017

Matariki at Capital E in June

Matariki is a celebration of people, language, spirituality and history. It is the time when people gather to share kai (food), rituals, entertainment, hospitality and knowledge.

For many Māori, it heralds the start of a new year, and at Capital E we have a range of activities that give families a chance to share a unique cultural experience for themselves during Wellington’s Matariki Festival.

E Kohiko Ana Matariki (Tuesday 30 May – Friday 7 July, 9.30am-3.30pm, Capital E Central, Free Entry)

At Capital E Central, E Kohiko Ana Matariki will be open daily from 9.30am-3.30pm from Monday to Saturday during June, with tamariki and their whānau are invited to share korero, weave harakeke and take part in craft activities. E Kohiko Ana Matariki is free entry and takes over from the ever popular Upside Down in our creative playspace. It’s suitable for children 3+ years.

Matariki Stories (Saturday 24 June, 1-1.30pm, Capital E Central, Free Entry)

Come join celebrated author and storyteller Moira Wairama for Matariki Stories, and begin a journey of Māori myths and legends, which is then followed by a waiata. This fun and informative activity is perfect for children 3+ years, and takes place on Saturday 24 June at 1pm at Capital E Central. Entry is fee for Matariki Stories.

Raranga Whetū (Saturday 10 June, Capital E Central, Free Entry)

Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades, and our Raranga Whetū activity is a fun way to learn more about their significance, while creatining your own flax Matariki stars. Talented weaver Marissa Pukutapu provides guidance and shares her art, in an activity that’s great for children 5+ years, that takes place at Capital E Central on Saturday 10 June, and is free entry.

Capital E is located in the heart of the Wellington’s Matariki Festival on Queen’s Wharf, making us a great location to stop in and enjoy some fun educational activities with children and young people during June. There’s always some to ignite the creative spark happening at Capital E.

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