Matariki Celebrations 2022

Matariki is the Māori name for a cluster of stars which we also know as the Pleiades. It signifies the Maori New Year and a time to spend with whānau and friends –to enjoy kai (food), waiata(song), tākaro(games), and to look to tūpuna(ancestors) for help with harvesting.. The Retreat has celebrated Matariki as an event since 2020 and in 2022 we are continuing this tradition with a multi-day programme of events. Matariki is a time to celebrate new life, to remember those who’ve passed and to plan for the future.

Description
Friday 24 June – Matariki Dawn and Breakfast

Our 2022 programme starts with a breakfast and stargazing to celebrate the rising of Matariki on Friday 24 June. View the Matariki constellation through binoculars and trace the outline of Te Waka O Rangi from Matariki at the prow through to Tautoru on the stern. Dine on one some of our chefs delicious breakfast creations.

Saturday 25 June – 9 Course Stellar Degustation

On Saturday 25 we will again offer the 9 Course stellar degustation that was so popular in 2021. Each course on the menu relates to a star within the Matariki Constellation. elating to the It is a common belief that Matariki has seven visible stars. But Matariki actually has nine visible stars, according to leading Māori astronomer, Dr Rangi Matamua, who has been researching Matariki for over 30 years. As part of his research, Dr Matamua found that some of his own tūpunawere able to see nine stars.The nine visible stars include: Matariki, Tupuārangi, Waipuna-ā-Rangi, Waitī, Tupuānuku, Ururangi, Waitā, Pōhutukawaand Hiwa-i-te-Rangi.Each star holds a certain significance over our wellbeing and environment, as seen from the Māori view of the world.

Sunday 26 June – Matariki Brunch and Celebration

Celebrate wtih whanau and friends over brunch with a traditional Maori celebration of kai, games and song. The brunch is a family celebration for all family members.