Matariki Ki Rawene – Dawn Blessing

Rawene Centre, Upstairs Level, 33 Rawene Road, Birkenhead

Toi . Wananga . Dawn Blessing. Community Activation

Presented by Toi Aro Trust and Lake House Arts
July 18th Saturday Dawn to Lunch

PART ONE
Dawn Matariki Star Art Activation – 5am – 7am
Begin the day with a special pre-dawn Matariki gathering at Rawene, welcoming the rising of the stars through reflection, creativity, and shared community experience. This activation invites participants to connect with the stories of Matariki and Puanga through star-inspired artmaking, remembrance, and intention-setting for the year ahead. 

Breakfast Kai and Wananga e Hapori – 7am – 8am
Following the dawn activation, the community will gather for light breakfast kai and a shared wānanga. This is a time for whakawhanaungatanga, kōrero, and reflection, creating space for people to connect with one another and with the kaupapa of Matariki in a warm and welcoming setting. 

Break/Setup – 8am – 9am

PART TWO
Toi & Kaupapa Maori Workshops – 9am – 12pm
The morning programme opens into a series of free (or koha) hands-on workshops and activations celebrating toi Māori, mātauranga, language, wellbeing, and community participation. Designed to be welcoming and accessible, these sessions will give participants the opportunity to learn, make, share, and engage with Māori creative and cultural practice in meaningful local ways. 
Workshops that are planned to be confirmed:
Lantern Making
Whakairo Panel carving
Waiata
Raranga
Māori Yoga
Basic Te Reo and Pepeha
Miri miri

Saturday the 18th 6am -12pm