Matariki Dawn Ceremony

Nau mai, haere mai. Celebrate the beginning of Te Tau Hou, the Māori New Year, at your local community garden. This event is the highlight of our yearly calendar and not to be missed.

Beginning before the sun has risen, we'll mark this significant moment together and learn more about how Matariki connects us to our past, present, future and natural world around us - mātauranga generously shared by Matua Rob Small. Send your wishes to Hiwa-i-te-rangi through fire and smoke, and remember those who have passed on. With no light except that from the fire and the gently rising sun it's a deeply special way to herald in the beginning of a new year.

We'll also be opening up our very own hāngi, patiently cooking our homegrown kai, to share together. Kumara, pumpkins, potatoes and more all grown mere metres away from where they're cooked. After filling our bellies and taking time to reflect on the connection between kai and the different Matariki whetū (stars) we'll work together to harvest the very last of our kumara - a job especially loved by kids!

INTERESTED? REGISTER NOW
We strongly encourage registration so that we can provide enough kai and plan accordingly. This event is completely free and open to everyone (kids included) whether or not you have visited our garden or become a member.

DIGNAN STREET COMMUNITY GARDEN is located within the grounds of the Point Chev Bowling Club (25 Dignan Street). Parking is available in the bowling club carpark or on the street nearby. To find the garden, head through the carpark and turn right. You'll wander past a bowling and shortly after find our wee oasis.