It was a wet Wellington winter evening, but the warmth of community spirit was unmistakable at Marsden’s Matariki Celebration on Friday 13 June. Whānau, friends, and students gathered for an evening of kai, culture, and connection under the stars (or in this case, under cover!).
Matariki is a special time to return to the place one calls home and to reaffirm bonds with whānau, friends, and communities. Our celebration embodied this spirit, bringing everyone together in a meaningful and joyous way.
From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted by the delicious aromas of food trucks and kai stalls, offering everything from bao buns and sausage sizzles to hot soup and traditional Māori and Pasifika delicacies. Sweet treats like donuts and Mr Whippy added to the festive atmosphere. Craft stations, face painting, and bracelet making offered fun for all ages.
Unfortunately, the rain meant that telescopes provided by the Wellington Astronomical Society had to be relocated indoors. While true star-gazing wasn’t possible, the sense of Matariki wonder remained strong thanks to the passion and knowledge shared by Marsden teacher and astronomer Deborah van Zyl.
A Night of Music and Magic
A standout feature of the evening was the wide array of student performances, which brought warmth and talent to every corner of the campus. The foyer came alive with the voices of our Preschool and Primary students, Kapa Haka and Larks and Altissime Choirs. Those gathered also enjoyed a series of piano solos, the Ad Summa Choir, a viola solo, a performance from our rock band and a singing duet.
A Community Effort
This event was a testament to the wider community that supports Marsden. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many individuals and groups who made this event possible:
- Bill at Gipps Street Butchery – supplied us with sausages for the BBQ!
- Parents & Friends Group Volunteers – for your mahi on the BBQ, Eftpos stations, soup-making, star cookies, cleanup, and cheer!
- New World Karori – for donating essentials for the sausage sizzle and soup.
- Māori & Pasifika Whānau Group – for your creamy pāua, fry bread, panipopo and hot chocolate.
- Jamie Fitzgerald – our energetic MC, Director of Rowing and Marsden parent.
- Teacher Deborah van Zyl & the Wellington Astronomical Society– for sharing astronomical knowledge and passion, even when the skies didn’t cooperate!
Looking Ahead with Hope and Joy
As the stars of Matariki rose in our minds and hearts (even if hidden behind the clouds), we honoured our tūpuna, celebrated the present, and looked to the future with gratitude and excitement.
Ngā mihi nui to everyone who braved the winter evening and helped make Marsden’s Matariki celebration such a beautiful expression of whanaungatanga and creativity.
Nau mai, haere mai – we look forward to seeing you again next year!
