It’s that time of the year when winter brings a twinkle in the eastern skies to herald the arrival of Matariki, the Pleiades star cluster. This is the signal to celebrate, give thanks for the harvest and remember loved ones.  Delicious Māori foods will be shared, stories retold, new knowledge learnt, creativity admired and memorable songs enjoyed.

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Te Ara Rama Matariki Light Trail, now in it’s 8th year, is an annual free-to-the-public outdoor lighting festival combining light, music and creativity across nine themes representing the nine stars of Matariki. The light trail runs for nine nights (representing the 9 stars of Matariki)  in Maybury Reserve, two minutes walk from the Glen Innes shopping village and the train and bus transport hub.

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Dress warm in layered clothing and wear walking shoes.

The light trail starts at Te Oro Music and Art Centre, Performances take place there on the last 3 nights. Entry is free of charge. www.teoro.org.nz  

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The Glen Innes Business Association is running a Matariki Feast prepared by 15 chefs and bakers on the last 3 nights.

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Glen Innes PAK’n SAVEMatariki Fireworks  Spectacular will light up the night sky at 9pm on the final night Saturday. 

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We live in a great place and this is our very own new year festival. Matariki is a Māori celebration for all New Zealanders to enjoy. It’s a time for fun, feasting, whanau, festivity and fireworks.

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Nau mai. Haere mai.

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Te Rangi Huata

Chairman Public Dreams Charitable Trust. 

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Gary Holmes

Manager, Glen Innes Business Association

MATARIKI LIGHT TRAIL