Make a move for Matariki festival

Maori New Year is nearly here. The rising of the Matariki star constellation marks the beginning of the month-long festival which brings with it more than 200 events showcasing Maori culture.

The festival kicks off on Saturday and runs until July 28. Here are a selection of the events taking place in the central area.

Martin Awa Clarke Langdon, Embodying the Past as Present as Future is an exhibition especially designed for Matariki. It takes place at The Pah Homestead in Hillsborough from June 17 to July 27. There is an artist talk on July 18 at 1.30pm.

Puketapapa Manu Aute Kite Day. Head to Mt Roskill summit for kitebuilding and flying, music, performances and food on June 28 from 10am till 4pm.

Matariki Dawn Planetarium Show delves into the cultural and astronomical significance of the star cluster to Maori. The event is at Stardome Observatory, Royal Oak, June 28 to July 13, 7pm till 8.30pm.

Through Our Eyes Matariki Art Exhibition showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople. The exhibition is on at Onehunga Community Centre from July 4 from 6pm till 7.30pm and July 5 till July 21 from 9am till 5.30pm.

RTR Rangatahi Tu Rangatira is a series of workshops for anyone aspiring to be on TV or work in the music industry. Workshops take place at Mika Haka Foundation Studios in Mt Roskill from July 5 till July 13 at 7pm.

M.A.D. Maori After Dark is an award-winning burlesque haka group. Performances take place on July 5, 6, 9, 13 at Mika Haka Foundation Studios in Mt Roskill at 8pm. Cost $10.

Maisey Rika is giving a free performance as part of Matariki on the Move at Te Mahurehure Marae in Point Chevalier on July 10 from 7.30pm till 9.30pm.