The start of Matariki was celebrated with a festival of colour, cultures, song and dance in Balclutha on Thursday.
Twenty-five school, community and cultural groups from across the district gathered at Te Pou Ō Mata-Au Clutha District War Memorial & Community Centre (TPŌMA) for an all-day variety performance to mark the Māori new year celebration.
Several hundred visitors attended the Puaka Matariki Iwikatea event, enjoying school kapa haka and waiata performances, and song and dance from others including Kiribati, Filipino, Pasifika, dance school and care groups.
Sport Clutha also hosted tākaro (Māori games) for visitors, ranging from whai (string games) to mau rākau (stick martial arts).
Event MC Matu Coleman said Matariki was a time to celebrate the past, present and future.
Organising committee member Timikuka Walker echoed this, saying Matariki was a time to ‘‘reset and take a break’’.
‘‘Our committee is very pleased with the way everything has gone today. It’s been great to see so many groups from every corner of our district come together and celebrate together.’’
He said the event committee would continue to refine and grow the event, which would return for its fourth year next July.
‘‘We’re seeing Puaka Matariki spread across the country as the importance of the celebration grows for people. We’ll have a hui and debrief, and make plans for next year.’’
Committee members said they hoped to integrate further kaupapa Māori (Māori foundations) into future events.
