Matariki Dawn Hīkoi Brings Whānau Together in Taupō
September 3, 2025
Before the first hint of dawn, whānau assembled quietly along the lakeside. Steam rose from the waters of
Taupō-nui-a-Tia as tamariki huddled under blankets and rangatahi guided kaumātua into place.
Our hīkoi began with the sound of a single pūtātara, calling us to gather in unity as we prepared to welcome
the Matariki star cluster.
Led by our kaumātua, the opening karakia acknowledged those who have passed (te hunga mate)
and those who remain, binding us through memory and aspiration.
Matariki marks a time to remember, to celebrate, and to plan. Our kaupapa this year centred on three threads:
Volunteers created intention cards for attendees to write down goals for whānau, hapori and taiao.
These will be displayed at our whare for the next lunar cycle.
“Matariki helps us pause. It’s our reset button as whānau—time to check in, forgive, and move forward together.”
Attendees shared personal kōrero. Some spoke of reconnecting with language and tikanga, while others carried grief
for loved ones lost. The space held both joy and tears, recognising that renewal and remembrance sit side by side.
Our team is compiling pātai asked on the day into a simple FAQ for the website.
As winter continues, we’ll host evening kōrero exploring each whetū of Matariki and what they represent—from
Tupuānuku and food grown in the earth, to Waitī and freshwater.
Watch our News page for dates and registration. If you’d like to help with kai, transport or setup,
get in touch. He waka eke noa — we’re all in this together.