Matariki Puanga: Sharing knowledge under the stars
Published on 04 June 2025
Matariki Puanga: Sharing knowledge under the stars
As the stars rise and winter begins to settle in, the people of Aotearoa turn their gaze skyward. In Upper Hutt, the bright star Puanga appears on the eastern horizon just before dawn, marking the start of the Māori New Year and the season of Matariki.
While some regions look to the Matariki star cluster (Pleiades), in Te Awakairangi and further northwest, it is Puanga who signals this sacred time. Whether it is Puanga or Matariki that guides us, the kaupapa remains the same: a moment to honour the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future.
This year, we invite you to be part of a series of hands-on community workshops that bring the spirit of Matariki to life through traditional Māori artforms and storytelling. These workshops are rooted in the core themes of whakamaharatanga (remembrance), whanaungatanga (connection), and hauora (wellbeing and renewal).
Each experience connects us more deeply to the whenua (land), to each other, and to the mātauranga (knowledge) of our ancestors.
Raranga and the Healing Properties of Harakeke
Step into the world of raranga (weaving) and learn the tikanga (customs) of working with harakeke (flax) a plant with deep spiritual and healing significance. Guided by local weavers and kaumātua (elders), participants will discover the whakapapa of harakeke, how it is harvested with respect, and how it has long nurtured both body and spirit.
Manu Tukutuku: Weaving Our Whakapapa and Aspirations
Create your own manu tukutuku (traditional kite) in this joyful and reflective workshop. Used during ceremony and celebration to as an indicator and connection to celestial knowledge. These kites are crafted from natural materials such as toetoe and kareao (supplejack). As you weave, you’ll also be invited to reflect on your whakapapa (ancestry) and your hopes for the year ahead.
Matariki and Puanga are more than just stars. They are reminders to slow down, to remember those who came before us, to care for our people and planet, and to step into a new season with intention.
These workshops are an invitation to gather, learn, and create to honour Matariki not just as a celebration, but as a practice of reconnection and renewal.
These workshops are supported by Ōrongomai Marae, Taranki Whanui, Te Atiawa and Ngati toa.
Registrations open up on Friday 6 June at 10:30am. Keep an eye out on social media