Marlborough Matariki Event Fund now open

Are you part of an organisation planning on holding an event to recognise Te Rā Aro ki a Matariki?

Council is seeking applications for the Mānawatia te Kahui o Matariki/ Marlborough Matariki Event Fund which celebrates and supports the regeneration and sustainability of mātauranga Māori associated with Te Kāhui o Matariki. Project Lead, Arts, Culture and Heritage, Nicola Neilson says the contestable fund, which is now open for applications from Marlborough community groups, organisations and individuals, aims to support events that recognise not only Te Rā Aro ki a Matariki, the public holiday, but also the wider kaupapa and principles of Matariki.

“The event must take place within Marlborough and be free or low cost, family-friendly and accessible to all,” Nicola said.

“The fund will support costs integral to holding an event, which includes venue and equipment hire, marketing and promotion and other costs.”

While there is no maximum for applications, it is likely between

$2,000 and $3,000 will be awarded to support events. Mrs Neilson said priority will be given to events that can demonstrate documented support from iwi and must demonstrate how funding would advance and promote one or more of the three major principles of Matariki. Applications for the 2024 funding round opened on Friday 1 March and close at 5pm Monday 15 April. To apply go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/recreation/ events/manawatia-te-kahui-o-matarikifund-marlborough-matariki-communityevent-fund

For further information please contact Nicola Neilson on Ph: 03 520 7400 or email: nicola.neilson@marlborough. govt.nz

Sunrise at the Wairau Bar - site of last year's fund recipient Rangitane o Wairau Matariki celebration