There were no fireworks, but it was no problem, as Wānaka locals and visitors engaged in the Matariki celebrations at the Wānaka lakefront on Friday (July 14).

More than 2,000 people gathered for the event, organised by the Kahu Youth Trust, sharing kai and enjoying kapa haka performances. 

“It was an incredible community event with so many coming together to celebrate Matariki,” Kahu Youth operations manager Anna Sutherland said.

Local organisations provided information on cherishing and protecting our natural environment.

“Sharing kai is a beautiful way to come together and celebrate.”

During the afternoon stage performancers entertained the crowd and local kaumatua Darren Rewi shared the importance of Matariki and relayed stories from the area.

“It was wonderful seeing such big crowds celebrating them [the performers] as they sang in te reo,” Anna said. 

Evening entertainment enthralled the crowd.

“Tamariki and rangatahi left the stage with such pride.”

Environmental groups WAI Wānaka, Wao, Te Kākano and Grow Wānaka were all in attendance providing information on their respective efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment.

There was also a marquee where people could remember those who had died, representing the star Pohutukawa in the Matariki constellation. 

The traditional hāngī provided more than 700 meals later in the afternoon before the crowds settled in for the evening's entertainment.

Matariki celebrations attracted whānau and rangatahi to the Wānaka lakefront.

‘Matariki’ is the Māori name for the star cluster, also known as the Pleiades or ‘the seven sisters.’ The appearance of the Matariki star cluster in the sky above New Zealand signals the beginning of the Māori New Year.

To see more photos from the Wānaka Matariki celebrations click here.

PHOTOS: Deanna Gerlach