In celebration of Matariki, Hei Whakapiki Mauri whānau came together on 10 July at Christchurch North Methodist Parish to witness performances and hear stories about the whakapapa and life experiences of fellow whānau members.

Kaiwhakahaere Ruth Jones said that Matariki is the perfect time to kōrero about the past and what’s to come. “Part of our focus at Hei Whakapiki Mauri this year is to encourage whānau to share their stories in their own way, and several of our hui and workshops have been centred on this kaupapa. Matariki provides a wonderful opportunity to learn more about each other, and where and who we come from,” Ruth said.

Carl Huia performed his story of his experience with autism called 'Takiwātanga', with Aleasha Seaward, supported by Jolt Dance. This performance was to be showcased by Jolt Dance in London last year, but had to be re-scheduled due to Covid-19.

Carl told the story of his name and how it links with his tīpuna. He shared the “stories I keep hidden at the back of my head” ; experiences of his grandmother passing and being bullied and misunderstood. He also shared moments with his Dad telling him stories of his ancestors while looking to the skies. “These are the people and places I belong to,” Carl said.

Through expressive dance, music and spoken word, Carl shared his view of the world. It was an incredibly moving experience for whānau in the crowd, with many brought to tears. Whānau member Wairemana offered Carl a beautiful mihi following his performance.

Next, whānau watched the short film They Call Me Sam: the journey of Sam Stevens and his whānau, also created with Jolt Dance. Lyn Cotton, Artistic Director at Jolt explained that the film grew out of a performance created in response to new pre-natal testing for Down’s Syndrome. “The culture is still really negative about disability and through Sam’s life we challenge perceptions,” she said.

Finally, Marlene Bennetts read some of her personal story to whānau. Marlene is a well-known author of children’s books and poetry and the experience of her disability and discovering her Māori whakapapa provide a unique foundation to the memoir she is writing at age 81. Hei Whakapiki Mauri is supporting Marlene to publish her book, with Te Pūtahitanga providing investment. She aims to launch it in 2022, with the funds raised going back into supporting whānau.

Whānau also practised a few waitata and enjoyed delicious kai and whanaungatanga together, along with celebrating the birthdays of Tamara and Tim.