Matariki is the name of a cluster of stars which is visible in our night sky at a specific time of the year. In June/July Matariki re-appears in the dawn sky – signaling the start of the Māori New Year.

It is a time to celebrate new life, to remember those who’ve passed and to plan for the future. And it’s a time to spend with whānau and friends. Many come together to enjoy kai (food), waiata (song), tākaro (games) and haka.

Nau mai haere mai all

Let's come together with whānau to celebrate Matariki and our beautiful heart-centered Aroha Essence community.

Tiana Te Moana Rongoa practitioner of Kohu Wellbeing, Goddess Gatherings By the Sea co-host and Aroha Essence Festival workshop facilitator will share her knowledge with kōrero about Maramataka (the Māori lunar calander and the stars of Matariki.

DJ Jussy our Aroha Essence Festival DJ Sound technician and Ecstatic dance CHCH facilitator will have you up dancing and feeling ka pai! DJ Jussy's Matariki special dance set will feature juicy vibes from around the world and Aotearoa.

Jake Kīano Skinner a highly skilled multi instrumentalists, member of Taonga Pūroro collective Kiki Pounamu and Aroha Essence Festival performer and Men's group facilitator will share a Taonga Pūroro sound journey alongside Atawhai as we connect into the teachings of Matariki.

Atawhai aka DJ Messenjah is a member of Kiki Pounamu, a reggae/Dub DJ who graced us with his beautiful musical offerings at Aroha Essence Festival this summer. He is also a RDU radio host running the 420 radio show and a is a musical producer with a wealth of experience.

After these beautiful offerings be will hikoi down to the beach for some star gazing, fire dancing and play.

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Earlybird tickets are $20 💚

(Tamariki under 14 are free)

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☆Te aroha me te atawhai☆

Much Love

Aroha Essence Festival Crew