1 May, 2019

If you like art or writing, then this competition is for you! The Waikato District Libraries Matariki competition opens on Monday 13 May. To enter, write a poem or create a picture about Matariki.

Matariki is the Maaori name for the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades, which rises in late May or early June in the Eastern sky. For many Maaori, it heralds the start of a new year and is a time of sharing and festivity. It is often a time when people reflect on personal goals.

“Matariki is a very special time of year, and people really enjoy celebrating it,” says Library Coordinator Cheryl Maskell. “We’ve been running this competition for several years now, and it’s very popular. Last year we had more than 600 entries including fantastic involvement from local schools.”

“If you’re not feeling artistic or poetic, we encourage you to pop in to your local library to learn more about Matariki. We’ll have Matariki displays and there are lots of really interesting books about Matariki.”

To enter the competition, pick up an entry form at any one of our libraries or offices – Huntly, Meremere, Ngaruawahia, Raglan, Te Kauwhata, Tuakau – or download an entry form from the Waikato District Council website: www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz/matariki.

Entries are accepted in Te Reo and English. A 1st place and runner up prize will be awarded for each age group in all categories.

• 1st place – $60 gift voucher

• Runner up – $30 gift voucher

• Supreme award winner – $100 gift voucher

A special prize-giving will be held in the Council Chambers in July.

ENDS

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