Matariki Umu & Potluck

Come celebrate with us on Matariki Day! Nau Mai, Haere Mai! All are welcome to join us!

The sighting of the Matariki (known in English as Pleiades) star cluster is visible from virtually every part of the world and many cultures watch for it and have their own traditions and customs around them. In New Zealand, Matariki holds immense significance in Maori culture. It marks the beginning of the Maori New Year and the arrival of the winter season. The rising of Matariki in the sky signals the perfect time for planting and fishing, and is considered a time for whanau gatherings and community festivities. Through the celebration of creation, Matariki is seen as a reminder of the connection that Maori have with the land, with the stars and with each other. Together as a church family, we won't be celebrating creation alone, but the One who created all of Creation, God himself!!!! He is the God of ALL the stars and the God of the planet we call home.

To celebrate, we will have an Umu cooking in the back yard, so please bring a salad or dessert to contribute to the meal! And we'll have fun activities for people of all ages and our infamous 10 question quiz between dinner and dessert to get your competition vibes flowing!

Friday June 20th – 4pm-7pm
St John’s Lounge & Backyard
100 St John St, Opotiki

Also check out other Food & Drink events in Whakatane.