We’re proud to celebrate Matariki maa Puanga at Chartwell this season.

Our display features the full cluster of nine whetuu of Matariki, each linked to a part of te taiao (the natural world) — from the awa (rivers) and moana (ocean) to the kai we harvest and the dreams we hold.

Matariki marks the beginning of the Maaori New Year. It’s a time to:

• Remember those we have lost,

• Reconnect with whaanau and friends,

• Share kai together,

• Reflect on the past year,

• And set intentions for the year ahead.

While many iwi, including Waikato-Tainui, celebrate the rise of Matariki, others observe Puanga, who appears more clearly in different parts of the motu. By saying Matariki maa Puanga, we honour all ways of marking the New Year and celebrate unity through diversity.

Come and experience our starry display, suspended above Centre Court, and enjoy the educational stickers on Level 2 that tell the stories of each whetuu.

At Chartwell, we use double vowels (like “Maaori” and “whetuu”) to reflect Waikato-Tainui spelling and the traditions of our mana whenua.

We look forward to sharing this special season with you.