Matariki Craft

15 June 2010

Hand crafted masks with a Matariki theme are on display in the wharenui (big meeting house) at Ngā Hau E Wha National Marae, 250 Pages Road, Christchurch, this week. The public can vote on which one they like best and go into a draw to win a basket of food.

Fifteen masks were made by Christchurch City Council staff members as part of the Matariki 2010 celebrations. This is the seventh year that Christchurch City Libraries (CCL) has developed learning activities and events to promote Matariki and there are events and activities at city libraries throughout this month.

Today (Tuesday) and Thursday (17th) from 5:30pm to 8pm, Ngā Hau E Wha National Marae is open to the public for Matariki celebrations, which is one of the most significant celebrations on the Māori calendar and becoming increasingly well-known throughout New Zealand.

The public can also vote for the masks online, via the CCL website christchurchcitylibraries.com, and go into a separate draw.