Matariki Weekend Camp

Matariki is a special time that marks the rise of the Matariki star cluster and the start of the Māori New Year. For many people nowadays, a public holiday can become just a moment to go shopping or do very little. However, the true spirit of Matariki is about much more. It is a sacred time to pause and consider those who are not with us anymore, to invest meaningful time in your family, and to think about the year ahead.

This weekend camp is a unique opportunity to invest in your family, bring everyone closer together and get the Māori New Year off to a positive, grounded start.

For another year, Sir Peter Blake MERC is collaborating with Te Pā to host an enriching cultural and outdoor adventure experience for all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are new to New Zealand or have lived here for years, our camp is designed to feel welcoming, safe, and community-focused. This event is open to all ages, backgrounds and levels of understanding.

What is Included in Your Ticket: Your ticket is fully inclusive. It covers your comfortable accommodation at our coastal venue, all meals for the entire weekend, and all facilitated outdoor and cultural activities. You do not need to worry about cooking or extra hidden costs.

So join us as we learn about the celebration of Matariki, engage in outdoor recreational activities relating to the different stars of Matariki, and gain a greater sense of community with this family camp experience.  You'll take part in the celebrations, learning karakia and waiata for our Hautapu ceremony with a hāngī for a dawn viewing of Matariki.

What to expect:

Friday afternoon:

• Whakatau & Hākiri (offical welcoming to MERC)

• Whakawhanaungatanga (getting to know each other)

• Kōrero and learning about Whakatau & Matariki

• Move in to accomodation

• Dinner

• Waiata introduction

• Free time/ bed

Saturday (full day):

• Breakfast

• Waiata practice

• MERC Activity

• Morning Tea

• Another MERC Activity

• Lunch

• Even MORE MERC Activities!!!!

• Dinner

• Pō whakangahau

• Free time/ bed

**Exact activities will be decided closer to the time - dependent on weather**

Sunday:

• Early viewing of Matariki

• Whāngi i te Hautapu

• Breakfast 

• Maramataka kōrero 

• Planting/Give back 

• Pack up + cleaning 

• Reflections/Wrap up/Depart before midday

***Disclaimer***

All activities are weather dependent and activities may change subject to the weather.

Any Child under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Those 16+ can attend by themselves. 

Upon check out please make sure you have completed the below forms for each participant:

Medical disclosure (for each participant):

https://Marine_Education_Recreation_Centre.formstack.com/forms/critical_medical_behavior_information_matariki_2026

Risk disclosure (for each participant):

https://marine_education_recreation_centre.formstack.com/forms/merc_risk_disclosure_matariki_at_merc2026

Packing list:

Clothing:

• Sunhat or beanie (for sun protection or warmth)

• Shirt

• Swimsuit / Swimming togs / Rash shirt

• Shorts (comfortable for daytime activities)

• 2-3 Warm top (for the evening)

• 2 -3 Long pants (for cooler evenings)

• Underwear & socks (enough for the duration of your trip)

• Sleepwear (pyjamas)

• Fleece or light jacket (for warmth at night)

• Secure, closed-toe footwear (required for all land activities)

• Slides/crocs/sandals for wearing during breaks or in the evening

• Waterproof jacket

• Towel (for water activities)

• Sunscreen

• Wetsuit (if you have your own)

Day to day

• Day backpack (to carry snacks, sunscreen, etc.)

• Drink bottle (reusable and durable)

• Torch/headlamp (for evening activities or bathroom trips)

Personal Hygiene & Toiletries:

• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, etc.)

• Sanitary items (if needed)

• Tea towel (for drying dishes)

• Plates, cup, knife, fork, and spoon (preferably in a small bag to keep organised)

• 2 Towels (for showers and swimming)

• Plastic bag for wet/dirty clothes

Bedding:

• Sleeping bag and blankets

• Fitted sheer

• Pillow and pillowcase

Extras(optional):

• Notebook and pen (for any fun activities or journaling or notes)

• Card games for free time

• Personal snacks

• Guitar or instrument!