A fireworks display for Matariki ki Pōneke will go ahead this year, with Mana Whenua and Wellington City Council meeting to discuss the format of future celebrations to mark the Māori New Year.

In 2017, we collectively agreed to move the Guy Fawkes fireworks display in November to Matariki in June.

Matariki was deemed more appropriate for a significant celebration and fireworks display. November the 5th is also the anniversary of Te Pāhuatanga o Parihaka – a very important day for the people of Te Ātiawa Taranaki Whānui.

Wellington City Council’s Tātai Heke Māori, Karepa Wall says Council is dedicated to working collaboratively with mana whenua on their Puanga celebration as well as Matariki celebrations.

“We recently formalised our partnership in the signing of Tākai Here, which enables mana whenua to take a leading role in Māori celebrations and language initiatives.

“This includes the format for Puanga and Matariki celebrations in Wellington, and we look forward to that kōrero.”

Taranaki Whānui Chair Kara Puketapu-Dentice welcomed the Council’s willingness to work together on future events.

“There are a range of views that we want to discuss with the Council and ensure we mark the Māori New Year in the right way.”

The capital will celebrate Matariki ki Pōneke with a series of events and experiences for whānau to enjoy.

Mana Whenua has a range of Puanga activities over the coming weeks supported by Council, with the Matariki ki Pōneke Ahi Kā experience around the Wellington waterfront and Te Ngākau Civic Square from Thursday 23 to Sunday 26 June between 6pm and 9pm each evening.

For more information, visit the Council’s Facebook page and visit wellington.govt.nz/matariki for the full programme of events.

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