A journey into myth and mystery

Next month brings a unique all-ages musical experience to Te Manawa.

As Matariki approaches, on June 17 the museum welcomes

on the first stop of its North Island tour.

Tinirau and Kae is a legend widespread across Aotearoa and is often a Matariki favourite.

It tells of how Tinirau, ancestor of all fish, employed the services of the priest Kae; how Kae betrayed Tinirau; and how Tinirau sought vengeance.

tells this story with a blend of narration, music and visuals that is a true feast for eyes and ears. Video segments — sometimes projected on to the artists themselves — are accompanied by live music performed with instruments from classical, jazz and Ma¯ ori traditions.

Find out what the combination of ko¯ auau and double bass sounds like, or classical flute and pu¯ rerehua.

is brought to Te Manawa by Chamber Music New Zealand. The performance begins at 2pm and is about one hour long. Entry is by koha.

The mix of Matariki and Ma¯ ori music continues in early July with a “sound journey” by Grammy-winning taonga pu¯ oro artist Jerome Kavanagh, from 6pm-7pm on July 5.

Experience the mystery and beauty of traditional Ma¯ ori instruments such as the nguru, puta¯ tara and koauau toroa.

Jerome will also run two hands-on workshops for the under-5s, from 10.15am to 11.15am on the mornings of July 4 and 5. Children will be able to try out some of the many taonga pu¯ oro in his collection.

The Sound Journey is $20 per person; each workshop is $8 per child; call 0800 4 A MUSEUM to make your bookings for either.