Light show back for Matariki event
Ōtepoti Dunedin is set to sparkle for Matariki once more, as the drone light show returns as part of a celebration of Māori culture, reflection and renewal.
The free community event will take place from 3pm to 9pm on June 21 at Logan Park.
It will feature two drone light shows, weaving art and storytelling.
Enterprise Dunedin event producer Allison Wallace said the festival reflected the city's commitment to higher-quality, accessible events that celebrated local culture and brought communities together.
"In response to feedback and the popularity of last year's drone show event, which saw 15,000 people there, we have extended the event footprint across Logan Park and have a large food truck and dining area.
"We have an earlier drone show for our younger audiences at 6pm, followed by a later show for our teens and adults at 8.30pm.
Drones light up the sky at last year's Matariki celebrations at Logan Park. PHOTO: GERARD O'BRIEN
"We're excited to announce our headline act as 1 Drop Nation, one of Aotearoa's must-see acts, whose music is a unique blend of roots, rock, funk and reggae."
Meanwhile, Ōtepoti Dunedin is preparing to welcome the Māori New Year with the Puaka Matariki Festival — a month-long celebration of renewal, reflection and connection. The festival, now in its 15th year in Ōtepoti, runs from June 14 to July 12.
The programme includes 26 events across Ōtepoti Dunedin, from a traditional hautapu ceremony, to the sharing of kai and kapa haka performances along with the return of the festival's drone show.
Paulette Tamati-Elliffe, of Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou, said as a community, people had been celebrating both Puaka and Matariki for many years.
Enterprise Dunedin Destination Manager Sian Sutton said the upcoming programme of events across the city was a chance to deepen our connection to te ao Māori.
"Puaka Matariki is a uniquely powerful time of reflection and unity.
"We're thrilled to bring this to life for our city and we're particularly excited by the collaborative process with mana whenua to ensure the event is culturally appropriate and reflective of Matariki values." — APL
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