Darwin’s Maori diaspora come together to celebrate Matariki 2025 under the night sky

Darwin’s Maori diaspora will come together this weekend with spectacular performances and a hangi feast celebrating Matariki.

Darwin’s Maori community will celebrate Matariki 2025, the annual Maori New Year.

Darwin’s Maori diaspora will come together this weekend with a spectacular showcase of cultural performances and a traditional hangi feast celebrating Matariki 2025, the annual Maori New Year.

Among the highlights of a spectacular showcase of cultural performances and a traditional Maori hangi feast by the Darwin Maori Community Association, is a performance from the Tamariki (children), who have been actively learning the Maori language through song, dance, and cultural gatherings.

The Greater Darwin region is home to a growing New Zealand diaspora, totalling close to 2,500 people, according to the 2021 census.

Darwin’s Maori diaspora will come together with a spectacular showcase of cultural performances and a traditional Maori hangi feast celebrating Matariki 2025, the annual Maori New Year.

With transferable working rights between New Zealand and Australia, the community continues to expand, enriching the region’s cultural tapestry.

The celebrations will be held under the stars Saturday at the Swampdogs Rugby Union clubhouse.

Jeanette O’Brien, President of the Darwin Maori Community Association, expressed her pride in how the event brings the community together and highlights the group’s cultural heritage.

“We have been very lucky to receive grant funding from the Northern Territory Government’s community benefit fund, along with generous support from local sponsors,” she said.

“Since establishing our local Maori Kapahaka Group, we’ve had a great opportunity to teach our young children key traditions through performance, and remember our cultural heritage.

“This created the impetus and community support for the establishment of the Darwin Maori Community Association Incorporated.

Matariki symbolises the new year for the Maori community.

“Matariki symbolises the Maori New Year and traditionally marks a time for reflection, togetherness, and celebrating new beginnings. Events such as this one help preserve cherished traditions while fostering a sense of unity among Darwin’s diverse communities.

“For the Tamariki, performing at Matariki 2025 is a particularly special moment, as it reflects the growing pride and participation of younger generations in their cultural heritage.”

Tickets are available at https://events.humanitix.com/matariki-2025-maori-new-year-celebration

Originally published as Darwin’s Maori diaspora come together to celebrate Matariki 2025 under the night sky