The event was organised by Active Southland regional sports director Fiona Ward to promote education about the new holiday and encourage rangitahi participation.
"This morning was about the meaning of Matariki and the tradition," she said.
The day began with a karakia, followed by video explaining Matariki. The pupils were then taught five traditional games: tapuae, mau rakau, poi, kio rahi, and the board game mu torere, some of which were taught by pupils of Te Wharekura O Arowhenua.
Te Wharekura O Arowhenua pupil Matuha Moeke led a game of mau rakau (Maori martial art) among pupils from other schools.
"It’s pretty good getting my culture out there teaching all these kids from other schools what te reo Maori is really about," he said.
By Ben Tomsett
