The Edinburgh Realty eNewsletter

Issue #123 | July 2023

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Six ways to celebrate Matariki this July

Matariki, the Māori New Year, is a time of reflection, connection, and celebration. As the Matariki star cluster returns to southern skies, it's time to come together to connect with each other and with nature. Here are six meaningful ways you can celebrate Matariki this midwinter in Otago.

  1. Star-gaze. Set the alarm, wrap up warm and head outside to spot the Matariki stars. Your best bet is just before sunrise from 13 to 18 July. 

  2. Nourish. Make a donation to your local foodbank, and get together for some kai with friends and whānau. Matariki is the time to share harvests that have been stored throughout the year. Gather, relax, feast and enjoy the warmth of great company.  

  3. Reflect. And remember loved ones lost. Share stories and photos of the stars in your life who have died and tell tamariki about them. Have a wee laugh together, and a good cry.  

  4. Connect. Explore and appreciate Papatūānuku, the natural world. Go for a beach or bush walk and reflect on your connection with the natural world. Appreciate the beauty of your environment and think of ways you can help it flourish. Organise a family beach clean-up or tree-planting. 

  5. Grow. Prepare your vegetable garden for fresh planting or plan a new bed. Growing your own veges ensures you are always connected with nature, with a convenient, nourishing food source, and with friends and family you can gift seeds, growing tips and produce.  

  6. Celebrate. Ōtepoti is abuzz in July with a variety of Matariki events and activities. Get out and enjoy the midwinter action Dunedin has on offer: 

Maramataka and Star Trails, 1-16 July, Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, 31 Queens Gardens, Dunedin

Paint and Wine Night: Matariki Stars, 13 July, Thursday 6:30-8:30pm, The Dish Cafe & Bar, 8 Stafford Street, Dunedin

Dance Under the Stars: Matariki Ball, 14 July, Friday 7:30-11:30pm, Petridish, 8 Stafford Street, Dunedin

Constellation Cake Pop and Matariki Star Cookie Workshop, 10-13 July, Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, 31 Queens Gardens, Dunedin

DSO Presents Whakanuia Matariki, 22 & 23 July, King's and Queen's Performing Arts Centre, 270 Bay View Road, Dunedin

Matariki Ahuka Nui Dawn Ceremony, 14 July, Friday 6:45am, Museum Reserve, 419 Great King Street, Dunedin