Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone
This year’s theme, Matariki herenga waka — the mooring place for all canoes, reflects the role of Te Āhuru Mōwai as a place of connection, belonging, and shelter for our community.
Celebrate Matariki with Manawatū Community Hub Libraries this Māori New Year, from 22 June – 11 July, with a range of activities including weaving, community morning tea and craft, rongoā, family quiz night, whetū installation, tamariki tales with Alan Dingley, and more.
Matariki is a time to reflect, celebrate, and prepare for the year ahead. It is an opportunity to remember loved ones, come together with whānau and community, share gratitude, and look forward with hope.
Outside of Te Āhuru Mōwai along Stafford Street, as you gaze upon the exterior of the building, you will see vibrational waves known as Ihirangaranga. Looking up to the second floor, you will see the seven stars of the Matariki constellation Waitī, Waitā, Waipunarangi, Ururangi, Tupuānuku, Tupuārangi, and Matariki guiding and welcoming you to Te Āhuru Mōwai.
We encourage people across the Manawatū District to gather, learn, share stories, and celebrate together!
Please note: Registrations are required for all workshops with limited spaces available.
To view the Matariki star cluster in 2026, the best viewing period is from 10 July to 14 July.
This celestial event marks the beginning of the Māori New Year (Te Mātahi o te Tau) and is a significant cultural moment in Aotearoa New Zealand.
For the best chance of visibility:
- Look towards the north-eastern horizon approximately 30–60 minutes before sunrise.
- Be mindful of weather conditions.
- The optimal viewing time is between 5.30am and 6.30am.
- Ensure you have a clear view with minimal light pollution.
22 June – 27 June
An interactive display at Te Āhuru Mōwai where members of the community can share memories of loved ones and places that are no longer with us.
22 June, Monday | 11.00am – 12.30pm
A free weaving workshop where community members can learn how to weave flax flowers.
Registration required - Book Now
15 spaces available
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
29 June, Monday | 10.30am – 12.00pm
Enjoy light refreshments, connection, and creativity while decorating whetū (stars) to become part of a special Matariki installation in the library.
22 June – 11 July
An interactive installation where visitors to Te Āhuru Mōwai can decorate a star and add it to a collaborative display within the hub.
2 July, Thursday | 5.00pm – 7.00pm
A free weaving workshop for community members with some prior weaving experience who would like to extend their skills by weaving a basket.
Registration required - Book Now
8 spaces available
Ages 16+
A fun evening of family togetherness, pizza and friendly competition.
Family Quiz Night
Registration required - Book Now
6 July, Monday | 10.00am – 11.30am
A free workshop where participants can learn the basics of rongoā Māori (traditional Māori healing and herbal remedies) and make their own kawakawa balm.
Registration required - Book Now
20 spaces available
Please note: Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
7 July, Tuesday | 10.00am – 11.30am
A free storytelling workshop where children can learn the art of storytelling with Alan Dingley.
Registration required - Book Now
20 spaces available
Ages 8–12
8 July, Wednesday
Free weaving workshops for children to learn how to weave whetū (stars), putiputi (flowers), and bracelets.
Registration required - Book Now
Workshop One
10.00am – 11.00am
Whetū & Putiputi
10 spaces available
Ages 5–8
Children must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver.
Workshop Two
11.30am – 12.30pm
Whetū & Putiputi
15 spaces available
Ages 8–10
Workshop Three
1.30pm – 2.30pm
Whetū, Putiputi & Bracelets
15 spaces available
Ages 10+