2018 brought an exciting calendar of events, especially with Hoki Mai Ra – our 25^th anniversary celebrations at Ohu Maatu.

This year is set to also be exciting with many events and celebrations to look forward to. Here are some key dates to add to your 2019 calendar.

Waitangi Day - 6 February
Waitangi Day is a chance to learn more about our tūpuna and history as it marks the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi 179 years ago, is largely where the story of our lost land begins.

You can review the background issues of NRAIT relating to the Treaty here.

Te Āwhina Marae is holding a Waitangi open day this year with a powhiri starting at 3pm and finishing with a takeaway hangi at 6pm.

Make sure you follow Te Āwhina Marae on Facebook to stay up to date!

Kai Fest – 7 April
Kai Fest is back for 2019!
Kai Fest is always a great day to not only celebrate the abundance of kai – but to learn more about where and how it is sourced.

The day also features performances from a range of groups such as kapa haka, musicians and other cultural groups.

We’re looking forward to a beautiful sunny day to enjoy some great company and great kai!

Ohu Maatu – 26-28 April
Last year we celebrated our 25^th anniversary with friends and whānau, welcomed new faces and shared great memories.

This year at Ohu Maatu we hope to see more of you who are attending the AGM for the first time, as well as returning owners, so we can share kōrero and get more of you involved in the business and community sides of the Trust.

Matariki – 25 June-3 July
Every year we celebrate the Māori new year marked by the reappearance of matariki, a cluster of seven stars – also known as Pleiades.

25 June marks the beginning of matariki for New Zealanders with many events running throughout June and July across Aotearoa.

Māori Language Week – 16-20 September
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week) is an opportunity to celebrate and learn our unique language. It allows us to encourage others to learn and incorporate te Reo into our everyday conversations, which helps us preserve the language and ensure it doesn’t get lost.

Running from 16 September to 20 September, the week is all about keeping the Māori language strong. There are parades and other events on and many New Zealand companies get involved by sharing kupu (words) to help people learn more te Reo.

We’re looking forward to the year ahead, and can’t wait to see you all around the rohe throughout the year as well as at Ohu Maatu.