Ngā Whetū Pīata: Celebrating Matariki Through Kapa Haka

This July, kindergartens from across Nelson Tasman will come together for our second annual Ngā Whetū Pīata Kapa Haka Day, a special event held in celebration of Matariki.

Kapa Haka Performance from 2025.

Matariki is a time to remember the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the future. It is a time for gathering, sharing stories, strengthening connections, and celebrating what makes our communities unique. At Nelson Tasman Kindergartens, Ngā Whetū Pīata reflects these values by bringing tamariki, whānau, kaiako, and communities together through kapa haka.

Over two half-days, kindergarten groups from across the region will take to the stage to share a range of performances, including waiata, haka, and Pasifika items. Each performance is an opportunity for tamariki to express themselves, celebrate culture, and take pride in what they have learned alongside their peers.

For many tamariki, performing in front of an audience is a significant experience. It takes courage, confidence, and teamwork. Throughout the weeks leading up to the event, tamariki practise together, support one another, and work towards a shared goal. The result is much more than a performance, it is a celebration of belonging, identity, and collective achievement.

Ngā Whetū Pīata is also an opportunity for our kindergarten community to come together. Whānau, friends, and supporters are invited to share in the experience and celebrate the learning journey of our tamariki. The event creates a sense of connection across our kindergartens, reminding us that while each kindergarten is unique, we are all part of a wider hapori.

Although this is only the second year of the event, it is already becoming a highlight of our Matariki celebrations. It provides a meaningful way to honour te ao Māori and create opportunities for tamariki to experience the richness of kapa haka in a supportive and encouraging environment.

As we prepare for this year's celebrations, we look forward to seeing our tamariki shine, supporting one another, and sharing this special kaupapa with our wider community.

Matariki is a time to celebrate growth, connection, and new beginnings. Ngā Whetū Pīata brings these values to life through the voices, actions, and enthusiasm of our tamariki.