Head to harbour for magical Matariki light show

Those looking for some uplifting light in the darkness of mid-winter Dunedin can find it in Otago Harbour for the next three nights.

A journey reflecting the connections of Dunedin to the wider Moananui-a-Kiwa (Pacific Ocean) will be projected on to a water screen in the Steamer Basin between 5.30pm and 8.30pm from Friday and is expected to draw large crowds.

The free Dunedin City Council-funded light show, titled "Mana Moana: Otepoti" celebrates the inaugural New Zealand Matariki public holiday.

The 35-minute show, consisting of a series of multimedia artworks projected on to the water screen, will be repeated five times each evening, accompanied by a night food market, making it a great night out for families.

People watch a preview of the Matariki immersive show on Otago Harbour. Over three nights, water...
People watch a preview of the Matariki immersive show on Otago Harbour. Over three nights, water and light will combine in a cinematic experience created by Maori and Pasifika artists. PHOTO: STEPHEN JAQUIERY
Council events team leader Dan Hendra said spectators were in for an "amazing" show.

"This is the first time we’ve held an event such as this on the Otago Harbour and we’re expecting thousands of people to attend.

"Spectators are encouraged to wrap up warmly and make the most of a midwinter evening under the Matariki stars."

Show co-curators Rachael Rakena and Michael Bridgman have created a powerful programme in conjunction with production studio Storybox.

It will feature seven diverse works by Maori and Pasifika artists, accompanied by music and sound.

Mobility parking will be available in Fish St, and a designated mobility drop-off zone will be in Fryatt St.

john.lewis@odt.co.nz

 

 

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