Matariki auhunga nui, Matariki hunga nui, Matariki tāpuapua
The rising of Matariki heralds a time of celebration, a time of renewal and a time of remembrance. This year, the Kāhui Kaumātua celebrated this time by hosting the Rehua Marae kaumātua for lunch.
The day was spent eating good food, sharing stories, a fair smattering of good-natured heckling during quiz time and a healthy dose of party songs. On the menu was tītī, inaka, mussels, roast meat and veges, finished off with delicious trifle and a cup of tea served in vintage chinaware.
It was a wonderful day and everyone came away from it having filled their kete with beautiful memories. A huge mihi goes to our wonderful caterer, Trish, our entertainer extraordinaire Sharon Russell, and our Taumutu whānau, who worked hard to make the day extra special for all of our kaumātua.
Here are quotes from two kuia who attended the lunch:
“I feel like a queen with this dainty teacup and saucer.”
“I don’t feel like a queen, I am a queen. Come here and take my photo, my moko are never going to believe this.”
Te Mairiki Williams and Roberta Arahanga.
Aunty Marg Jones and Aunty Daphne O’Connell.
Denise Sheat and Hakopa Wharepiti.
Les Wanhalla and John McManus.
Te Mairiki Williams and Roberta Arahanga.
Roberta Arahanga.