Matariki

This year for Matariki we’ve taken over some windows on Trafalgar and Bridge street.

There are three displays, all honouring the past, celebrating the present, and planting the seeds for the future:
1. Matariki Whetu – flora stars made in a community workshop
2. Stars created by Anne Rush
3. Two poems by George Penney with a photo, ‘After the hangi’ by Fiona Lees

Matariki Whetu

Tania Smith at Āwhio ran a workshop for people to make Matariki wheto – many thanks to Clare, Pania, Rebecca, Louisa, Antoinette, and Vicki B & daughters.

The theme was Tupuānuku, watiti, waita. Mau mai, haere mai – thanks you to everyone who joined us.

Stars

“This artistic light constellation has been assembled to celebrate Matariki where we remember the past, meditate, act on the here and now, and make wishes for future.” Anne Rush

Poems & photography for Matariki

Whakatū-based writer, poet and observer of small things, George Penney, wrote two poems after attending Matariki celebrations in 2025. They are displayed in the window alongside a stunning photo by Whakatū creative Fiona Lees, taken at Victory Community Centre.

Spotted at Matariki in Whakatū 2025
A small human runs up to his nan (80s?)
who’s wearing a woven straw hat,
colourful scarves and a bright red coat.

He hugs her around the waist
and refuses to let go
when his dad asks if he wants to go
play with his cousins.

Nan picks him up
and is seen still hugging him
while he sleeps an hour later.

Poem selected from George Penney’s book ‘Tiny Moments of Joy’ available to purchase at Red Gallery & Design Store at 1 Bridge St, Nelson

Many thanks to Nelson City Council for funding the Āwhio Workshop, and to Thompson Property Group for the site.