Celebrations for Matariki, the Maori New Year have brightened up the winter season with events, exhibition openings and performances happening around the country.

Toi o Manukau has supported artists and organisers to put together special events and activities as part of the Matariki ki Manukau programme.Celebrations for Matariki, the Maori New Year have brightened up the winter season with events, exhibition openings and performances happening around the country.

Toi o Manukau has supported artists and organisers to put together special events and activities as part of the Matariki ki Manukau programme.A highlight is the Honouring Theatre Festival, a season of international plays from New Zealand, Australia and Canada. It's a special chance to see contemporary indigenous theatre at its finest and shows Toi o Manukau's support of indigenous connections.

"These are special, one-off performances that won't be seen in New Zealand again for a number of years. People will definitely relate to the Canadian and Australian stories, there are such similar issues," says Stephen Bradshaw, Kaiwhakahaere (Manager), Toi o Manukau, who is coordinating the overall programme.

During the July school holiday period is a great time for families to participate in free activities, visit art exhibitions and go along to storytelling sessions for the young and young-at-heart. Hangi feasts will be held at arts centres Te Tuhi and Uxbridge. Other special events are an archival film screening and Te Kakano exhibition involving youth art works at Uxbridge in Howick.

Whether it's art exhibitions - featuring photography to glass work to printmaking - or learning to make your own canoe from natural materials, there is plenty to experience in Manukau.

"What Toi o Manukau wants to do, is show off the creativity and talent that's in this community. It's about doing things here, at a high standard, for everyone to enjoy. I think Matariki is a great time to get together with friends and family and attend these events," says Stephen.

Funding from ASB Community Trust has gone towards 10 local projects that make up this year's programme. Matariki ki Manukau is presented by Toi o Manukau with the support of Manukau City Council.

About Matariki ki Manukau
Dates: 5 June - 28 July
Toi o Manukau is pleased to present the inaugural Matariki ki Manukau - a time for family and friends to gather together for a deeper experience of Maori culture and to enjoy the special events and activities around Manukau city.

Matariki ki Manukau includes:
- Nga Toi, contemporary visual arts
- Whakaari, a season of performances
- Hakari, a gathering time for whanau (families) and the sharing of food
- He Kahui Whetu, presented by Manukau Libraries

Matariki ki Manukau events are also featured as part of the Auckland regional Matariki Festival

Manukau City Council

26/05/08