28 May 2004

Matariki begins

A series of community events celebrating the Maori New Year begin this week, and continue throughout June and July.

Waitakere City’s Matariki celebrations include a variety of activities such as art exhibitions, displays, live performances of traditional Maori poi and a festival day at Corbans Estate.

Matariki itself means ‘little eyes’ or ‘little points.’ It is a cluster of seven stars also known as Plaedies which signify the Maori/Polynesian New Year.

One of the highlights of the celebrations will be the Old Maori Show bands Night and Friends, to be held in the Titirangi Memorial Hall on Saturday 3 July.

This will feature musicians from the hugely popular show bands of the 1950s and 60s.

To get tickets for any of these events or for more information, pick up a brochure at local libraries, art galleries or contact Kristal Rogers, on 836 8000 ext 8507.

The full programme is also available on www.waitakere.govt.nz

ENDS

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