Matariki performers sought

Organisers of the third annual Matariki Arrowtown-Kā-Muriwai event are on the hunt for locals keen to perform or volunteer during this month’s event.

Being held on Friday, June 28, the theme of this year’s celebration’s ‘bringing whanau together’ — along with kapa haka and local talent showcases, there’ll be a variety of cultural activities and interactive displays to cater to all ages.

Watson & Wyatt director Ann Wyatt’s working closely with the event committee and says it embodies a celebration "by the community, for the community".

"For instance, we have school children creating Matariki artwork and learning kapa haka and waiata, while the museum staff are developing a ‘Matariki Around the World’ exhibit for the event."

While she’s "immensely grateful" for the local support received so far, she’s on the hunt for any members of the community who are keen to perform on the Library Green stage, particularly poets, singers and bands of up to three performers.

Wyatt says they’re looking for vollies to be street guides, kitchenhands, koha donation collectors, traffic and parking guides, and hosts for interactive displays — they’ll receive a Skyline annual pass for their time.

Volunteer and talent applications close next Friday — forms are available at arrowtown.com/matariki.

This year’s event runs from 3.30pm till 8.30pm in and around Buckingham St.