What
In the past two decades Matariki has become a nationwide phenomenon, with numerous events occurring each winter to celebrate the predawn rising of this star cluster. Our modern observation of Matariki is helping to embed this celebration within the consciousness of the general public, and it is becoming part of our wider Aotearoa identity.
Professor Rangi Matamua is Associate Dean Postgraduate at the Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies at the University of Waikato. He is also a leading expert on Maori astronomy, and as the author of the bestselling book, ‘Matariki the Star of the Year’ he travels extensively throughout the country and internationally speaking about Matariki.
Rangi will give a two hour lecture that will include images, video and animations and detailed knowledge about Matariki, sharing his knowledge and highlighting connections between cultural knowledge and science.
When and Where
Blenheim | 11 April, Ūkaipō, Rangitāne Cultural Centre – register for Blenheim
Christchurch | 12 April, Charles Luney Auditorium, St Margaret’s College – register for Christchurch
Dunedin | 18 April, St David’s Lecture Theatre, University of Otago – register for Dunedin
Wellington | 23 April, Little Theatre, Lower Hutt – register for Lower Hutt
Palmerston North | 24 April, Palmerston North Boys High School, Speirs Centre – register for Palmerston North
Whanganui | 26 April, Whanganui Collegiate School, Prince Edward Auditorium – register for Whanganui
Napier | 27 April, the Ballroom, Napier Conference Centre – register for Napier
Gisborne | 9 May, The War Memorial – register for Gisborne
Taupo | 10 May, Great Lakes Centre Theatre – register for Taupo
New Plymouth | 11 May, Devon Hotel (Hobson Room) – register for New Plymouth
Rotorua | 16 May, Millennium Hotel, Makoia Room – register for Rotorua
Auckland | 17 May, BNZ Theare, Vodafone Events Centre Manuwera – register for Auckland
Hamilton | 23 May, Southwell School (auditorium) – register for Hamilton
Tauranga | 24 May, Baypark Arena – Arena Combined Suites – register for Tauranga
Whangarei | 25 May, Raumanga Campus – register for Whangarei
How Much
Free
These events are free to attend and you are welcome to turn up on the day. However, due to their expected popularity, please register to guarantee your seat(s)
More
Overview on Royal Society Webpage
Registration of individual events are above (in the When and Where section) or on the Royal Society website.