Matariki at Harakeke House

Matariki kāinga hokia

Matariki calls you home

Te Otinga O Ngā Mahi Audrey Hohaia

The Le Va team celebrated Matariki alongside their Wise Group colleagues in Harakeke House in July, marking the start of the Māori new year with a time of learning, reflection and whanaungatanga.

Guest speaker Te Otinga O Ngā Mahi Audrey Hohaia (Ngāpuhi) shared her rich mātauranga Māori with the Harakeke House whānau. She spoke about the creation of Te Ao Māori, Te Kore, and the separation of Ranginui and Papatūānuku.

LinkPeople staff members Kim Phillips and Te Rangi Piri-Te Kira gave a presentation on the significance of the nine whetū o Matariki and the relevance of Matariki to our modern lives.

Colleagues from the different Wise Group entities then shared karakia, kōrero, waiata, and kai, including hāngī and parāoa parai or fry bread.

The celebration, which was enjoyed by all, embodied the values of tohatoha (sharing), noho tahi (coming together), and whakanui (celebration). Staff embraced the spirit of Matariki and left with a deeper understanding and stronger connections to each other.