The first national observance of a tikanga Māori event was marked by a full day of Matariki themed programming on Whakaata Māori.

The special live broadcast began at 6.00 AM on Friday 24 June 2022.

Hosted by Stacey Morrison and Mātai Smith, WHAKAMANAWATIA A MATARIKI was a five hour programme, funded by Te Māngai Pāho and NZ On Air, that began with a traditional Hautapu ceremony, broadcast from Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellngton

The hautapu ceremony was then followed by an address from the Prime Minister.

The programme also included commentary and panel discussions based on the three themes of Matariki.: Reflect. Celebrate. Reset. There were also live music performances from leading and emerging artists, with each song introduced and explained by the hosts.

This live coverage of festivities was a visual and aural treat. Aeroplane Music really enjoyed licensing local music for this very special broadcast.

Watch Mānawatia a Matariki here.