Matariki hunga nui, Matariki oranga nui

Whetūrangihia returns to the stage a powerful theatrical experience that follows the journey of a whānau seeking to understand Te Kāhui o Matariki and its deep connection to the land, to memory, to hope. Set during a time of loss, the story unfolds as they prepare for te umu kohukohu whetū a traditional ritual conducted at the rise of the Matariki star cluster.

Through Koro’s teachings, the whānau begin to realise that Matariki is more than a celestial event it is a living constellation, each star carrying a purpose. As they learn about the relationship between the stars and the whenua, they begin to understand their own place within it.

What emerges is a realisation that Matariki is not only a time to grieve, but a time to nurture all that wellbeing encompasses.

Rich with emotion from grief and longing to joy, laughter, and healing Whetūrangihia brings this mātauranga to life through a compelling display of theatre excellence. Reo Māori, performance, music, and storytelling are all woven to create a powerful cultural and artistic experience.

Nau mai ki Whetūrangihia!