Thursday 9th of July - Matariki i Te Nukuao

Celebrate the return to the skies of the nine sister stars of Matariki these school holidays! Explore the connection between people, the whenua (land) and Aotearoa’s native taonga species, through pūrākau (storytelling), kemu (games) and preparing kai for kararehe (animals). Experience the unique powers of the whetū (stars) of Matariki me Puanga and how they help us protect our environment and care for kararehe at Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo.  

Activities on this day may include: 

• Honour the past: play traditional Māori kemu (games) and make pōhutukawa memory bracelets to remember your loved ones 
• Celebrate the present: let the whetū of Matariki guide you as your harvest kai (food) for kararehe at the Zoo 
• Look to the future: connect with Papatūānuku by getting your ringaringa (hands) dirty and doing some gardening!