MATARIKI – A Joyous Sparkle in Flaxmere

Wednesday, 13 June 2012, 4:54 pm
Press Release: Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Inc

Media Release – 11 June 2012

‘MATARIKI – A Joyous Sparkle in Flaxmere

Just a few years ago Matariki was an event that most New Zealanders and even Maori had never heard of. But on Friday night 22nd June at Flaxmere Park, when the Maori New Year celebrations begin in Hastings, hundreds will be looking to the night sky celebrating. “We want the whole community to come to our twelfth annual celebration”, said Te Rangi Huata, Promotions Manager for Ngati Kahungunu Iwi.

The Flaxmere event is to commemorate the appearance of Matariki - the name given by Maori to a cluster of stars that rise on the north eastern horizon about the end of May each year.

Traditionally, Matariki was used by pre-European Maori as a navigational aid, a portent on whether the coming harvests would be plentiful, and as a time to reflect.

"Matariki is becoming more profiled around the region, and so it should because it is something unique to our country," local organiser Te Rangi said. "No other nation in the world sees it at the same time as us."

The free public event in Flaxmere has moved to a new location in Flaxmere Park, from the soccer fields to opposite Flaxmere College in Henderson Road.

“We’re moving our event it into the heart of the new developments planned for the park”, said Te Rangi. “Hastings District Council is building a kiddies splash pad, skate bowl and basketball court on the site so moving here is a no brainer”
The event starts 5pm on Friday 22 June and includes free kiddies rides, local school cultural groups, bands and hip hop dancers from Rezpect Dance Academy.

Dancers of all ages will compete in the Beyonce “Move Your Body” contest. The best dancers will win $50 phone top ups and Red Rat clothing vouchers. A video clip of the dance routine can be found on you tube or www.rezpectdanceacademy.com

The entertainment will feature the talents of seven young performing artists from Flaxmere, each singing a song of their choice.
“We’re showcasing emerging songsters between popular DJ music sets” said Te Rangi, “ There are seven stars in the Matariki constellation and these youngsters will bring a joyous sparkle to the night when they perform.”

The finale features a spectacular fireworks show to music at 8.20pm. Pet owners are advised to keep cats and dogs indoors with windows and curtains closed during the fireworks display. Playing music also helps calm animals.

The public are encouraged to dress warm with layered clothing and walk to the event.
The free event has a budget of $28,000 and is funded by Trust House, Ngati Kahungunu Iwi, Te Puni Kokiri and Mai FM.

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