Haere Mai Matariki! Celebration of New Zealand

 Maori New Year Celebrations Hastings 4 to 5 June 2005

Matariki heralds the arrival of the first new moon after the rising of the star cluster Pleiades in the eastern sky at dawn.It marks the end of the traditional harvest and the beginning of the ‘new year’ planting season. It is a time of feasting, fun and festivity. It seems only appropriate that Hawke’s Bay renowned for it’s wine and food bounty should celebrate this time with gusto.

Matariki Festival

Saturday 4 June 2005 12pm ‘til late  Hawke’s Bay Showgrounds, Entry at Karamu & Kenilworth Rds, Hastings.

Experience an awesome sight as six giant 5 metre Maltese Irdieden (firewheels) rotate and roar as they spark to life, wonder at the heartstopping fireworks display as it explodes across the night sky and have fun on the giant zipper, Miami Madness and other great fairground rides and attractions. 

Enjoy family entertainment including FMX Krazzy Riders, Fear Factor Contest, Tui Teka Tribute Show, Nzed Hip Hop Show, kapa haka and lots more. Thrill to the Lions live action rugby debut against Bay of Plenty on the giant screen.  

Join in the Matariki welcome ceremony with ritual, song, gift-giving and a glowing lantern procession. 

Try a variety of tasty foods including hangi, steamed mussels, Thai, Chinese, Indian and kiwi tucker. Bar facilities and eftpos on-site. 

Dress warm and wear walking shoes. No glass or pets allowed.  

$10 entry. $5 Under 16. Under 5 free. Family Pass (2 adults, 2 kids) $25

Tel 06-873-0041 www.matarikifestival.co.nz

Matariki Celebrate the harvest @ Farmers Market

Hawke’s Bay’s Tastiest Party!

Sunday 5 June 2005

8.30am – 2pm. Rain or shine

Free entry

Over 40 wineries, restaurants and food producers showcase their gastronomic delights. Try a tantalizing selection of Hawke’s Bay’s finest wine by the glass or sample culinary wonders. There is delicious Maori food too including the annual ‘Nest Rewena Bread Contest”. Enjoy the superb line up of traditional Maori dancers, musicians, buskers and hot air balloon lift-offs. 

Hawke’s Bay Showgrounds, Kenilworth Rd, Hastings. Tel 06-873-0041 

Matariki Festival Dinner

Sunday 5 June 2005 6.30pm

A spectacular dinner in the candlelit Barrel Hall at Matariki Wines showcasing their wines and giving wine lovers the opportunity to celebrate the Matariki Festival. The evening includes wonderful food by Sam Orton Caterers, stunning entertainment and stellar wines, so make this a night to remember. Numbers are limited. Table bookings available. Starting at 6.30pm ‘till late.

Matariki Wines, 52 Kirkwood Road, Hastings Tel 06 - 879–6226

www.matarikiwines.co.nz

Matariki Art Exhibition

Free Entry 7 – 19 June

National and emerging artists from Toimairangi Visual Arts led by Sandy Adsett showcase their new works.

Creative Hastings Gallery, 106 Russell St, Hastings Tel 06 878-9447

Sponsored by Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Inc, Radio Network, Ma Te Reo, Matariki Wines