Ōpōtiki District Council’s iSite and events team wrapped up a three-week calendar of Matariki events this month with thousands of locals and visitors enjoying a range of events from golf to star-gazing.
Council’s Experience and Engagement Coordinator, Iranui Huriwai, said the feedback had been really positive and the range of events meant there was almost always something going on and something for all interests.
“It was a really wide range of events, for those looking to learn more about the mātauranga of Matariki, or try our waka ama or an intense game of Ki o Rahi. There were activities for kids or artists. It’s impressive how many individuals and groups shared their time and skills with the community this winter.
“In combination with being a finalist in the NZEA awards as well, we are just really proud of what we all achieved together,” Ms Huriwai said.
Some of the highlights included:
- Ki o Rahi Tournament for schools that had 16 school participating.
- Burying a 10-year time capsule buried.
- More than 500 trees planted as part of the Dunes Trail Planting at Wairakaia Rd.
- Sold out movie premier for Ka Whawhai Tonu.
- More than 50 people at Waiaua Marae at the crack of dawn for He Aro Ki Ngā Whetu to celebrate the Matariki Public Holiday.
- Ambrose Golf Tournament with 132 golfers raising more than $3000 for junior golfers.
- A new waka from Kura Ki Tai Waka Ama Club made its maiden voyage at a very successful waka ama event.
- More than 40 people registered to attend the Hukutaia Domain Care Group night walk.
- A Night To Remember by the Ko Kollective Trust celebrated Matariki with a focus on giving back to our community through koha and kai while honouring those lost in the past year.
“And of course the Matariki Pacific Pulse was an absolute highlight. A celebration of our community and our Pacific brothers and sisters. In addition to our guests, the dignitaries and the High Commissioner of the Solomon Islands, we had a crowd of nearly 3000 people throughout the day all well and truly fed and entertained. What a way to mark an exciting new year for Ōpōtiki,” Ms Huriwai said.
