The history and spectacular geography of the Devonport peninsula naturally engenders a sense of pride among residents of the suburbs it encompasses, and with that an unusually strong sense of community spirit amongst the many agencies that make up the community-led organisation sector.

Devonport hosted a fantastically successful celebration of Matariki in 2022 and planning discussions for Matariki 2023 began soon after – with the unusual challenge of needing to tamper enthusiasm for joining in the fun of a large-scale hikoi up the North Shore’s highest volcano, Takarunga / Mt Victoria.

The result of several months of coordinated community organisation planning was revealed late June, with the release of a Matariki celebration brochure showing local events running through until the end of July.

Of course it’s largely about encouraging our tamariki to participate and learn, and a key aspect of the activities is lantern making, with sessions being held at primary schools, as well as Devonport Community House and the Navy Museum at Torpedo Bay.

The Community Matariki Celebration being held at Windsor Reserve on Saturday 15 July, will provide the opportunity for all those lanterns to come together (as so many did last year) to share waiata, stories and performances in the late afternoon and evening.

With the aid of funding provided by the Devonport Takapuna Local Board, the Devonport Business Association is adding its support to that (weather permitting!) spectacular gathering, as well as other events during the first weeks of July leading up to the mid-month Matariki public holiday long weekend. 

There are plenty of stars year-round among Devonport’s food and beverage providers, but in that fortnight period nine of our restaurants and cafés will be promoting the individual Matariki stars with posters in their windows. The Matariki Star Hunt competition is aimed at entertaining and educating children up to age 14, along with their parents and caregivers. Entry forms are available from the Devonport library.

Many Devonport restaurants are also offering special dishes for that Matariki celebration period, with culinary inspiration drawn from the individual meaning of one of the nine stars.

Aotearoa’s winter solstice has passed already and the days are lengthening! Come and visit our village with the stars this Matariki and enjoy some of what Devonport has to offer in winter.