Hey kids, mums and dads, it’s me, Monty the Monkey! Here in New Zealand, Matariki is our very own winter festival. Matariki is the Māori name for the seven stars that mark the beginning of Māori new year. Do you know the names of all seven sisters?
There’s Matariki (mother or whaea) Tupu-ā-nuku, Tupu-ā-rangi, Waipunarangi, Waitī and Waitā, and Ururangi. The constellation is also known as the Pleiades, and in ancient times Matariki was also a special time to instruct young people about the land, bush and ocean. For our urban kids it can still be a time of appreciation for the environment and awesome country we live in!
This year Matariki has been in the sky since June 15, so all around the country we have been celebrating. Already at Westfield Riccarton, we’ve been entertained by local kids performing kapa haka and created Matariki-themed crafts. In Auckland, Westfield Manukau collaborated with Stardome with colouring-in fun and prize packs.
Local schools showed off their kapa haka skills and the Pasetika Boys did an awesome performance. Of course my face-painting friends also worked their magic, although paint is not great for my fur!
If this sounds like something you and your kids would love, don’t worry you haven’t missed out!
We are continuing the Matariki fun through our Monty Mornings with LEGO DUPLO for the under 5s. At Westfield Riccarton on June 26, I’ll be helping your little ones to make Matariki-themed paper lanterns which they can colour in, stick on stars and take home.
If you’re in the Auckland area, Westfield Manukau’s Monty Morning is on June 27. Here your kids can decorate their own dream catchers. At Monty Mornings in Westfield Albany, July 3, and Westfield St Lukes, July 11, children can decorate their own amazing star crafts.
Come celebrate with me, Monty the Monkey and let’s learn together!
Next dates of Monty Mornings with LEGO Duplo:
WESTFIELD RICCARTON
Tuesday, June 26, 10am – 12pm
WESTFIELD MANUKAU
Wednesday, June 27, 10am – 12pm
WESTFIELD ALBANY
Tuesday, July 3, 10am – 12pm
WESTFIELD ST LUKES
Wednesday, July 11, 10am – 12pm
