Aotearoa’s only national food celebration, Feast Matariki is bringing together growers, fishers, chefs, story-tellers and others who are hosting a wide variety of food-focussed events for whānau, communities and eaters of all backgrounds.
Feast Matariki 2021 is a celebration for us all. “As New Zealanders we are a unique combination of many people, ingredients, places and cultures, grounded in our connection to our land and ocean.” says Angela Clifford, ceo of Eat New Zealand who is hosting the festival.
Avid supporter Professor Rāngi Mātāmua notes that “food is an anchor point or pathway to the celebration of Matariki. It’s a way for whānau & communities to come together to both celebrate and connect with their environment, by sourcing food from it.”
While Matariki rises on 2 July, the celebration runs from 21 June – 8 July with standout events including:
Kaihaukai 27 June, Cocos Cantina, Auckland.
A kaihaukai is a feast which acknowledges the exchange of food and ideas. Hosted by Damaris Coulter (The Realness) and Eat New Zealand, it includes a korero by Prof Rangi Matamua as well Māori chefs and writers Gretta Carney (Hapī) & Emma Galloway (My Darling Lemon Thyme).
Matariki Dish Challenge 12 June – 12 July, throughout Waikato.
Waikato Food Inc encourages chefs to create a dish celebrating Maori New Year and Waikato Produce.
Know the Whakapapa of Your Kai 25-26 June, Gatherings Restaurant, Christchurch.
Young Māori chef Josh Hunter brings this much-loved pop-up back to the city, cooking with his friends, showcasing his food and whakapapa.
Modern Matariki Hāngi with Joe McLeod 9 July, Wellington Botanic Gardens.
Chef Joe McLeod is on a mission to teach us more about Māori cuisine and will introduce people to the rich and varied history and ingredients.
Puanga Matariki Hakari 3 July, Ahi Restaurant, Auckland.
A long lunch collaboration between Ben Bayly and his longtime friend and inspirational Hāngi Master Rewi Spraggon.
Matariki Stellar 9 course degustation 3 July, Lakeside Retreat, Aoraki Mt Cook.
Celebrate Matariki under the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve with family and friends. It will be a shared conversation over an innovative nine-course degustation dinner matched with each of the stars in the constellation.
So build your table, pull up a seat and draw close to help celebrate Aotearoa’s only national food celebration – Feast Matariki.
‘Matariki ahunga nui.’ (‘Matariki, provider of food’)
