Matariki - New Zealand's Gourmet Hangi and Concert

On May 10th a star-studded gourmet hangi feast and concert for 700-plus guests - thought to be the largest of its type in the world - launched this year’s Matariki celebrations.

About Matariki

Art exhibitions to celebrate Matariki may combine traditional motifs with contemporary techniques.

Traditionally, Matariki was an opportunity to honour the past and plan for the future. Today it has become a time to celebrate the remarkable country we live in; share kai (food), stories and songs; create art and enjoy cultural entertainment.

Making Matariki even more special

A huge manu aute or Māori kite, on loan from the Waikato Museum, was displayed at the event. It was designed in the traditional manner by artists Rama Kete, Pita and Karen Te Ngaru, and Kirihaehae Kirkwood. New Zealand artist Tracey Tawhiao designed the stage backdrop.

A feast you will never forget

Fresh food - hot from the Maori hangi oven.
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Peter planned a gourmet menu that included marinated pork loin with kawakawa (a native herb with a mint flavour), stuffed pork belly, marinated chicken with local manuka honey, whole baby lamb and marinated beef with peppery native horopito. The food was cooked in a hangi (earth oven) using super-heated stones, in keeping with Maori traditions. For those who had never eaten hangi food before, it was a delicious surprise.

All the dishes were devised to add a twist to the usual hangi fare, Peter Gordon says. "I’ve simply added a fusion approach using local ingredients where I can and some Asian spicing as well. It will be very tasty I can assure you."

Peter Gordon was assisted by other high profile New Zealand chefs including Anne Thorp, the Maori ‘Queen of Cuisine’ and star of the TV food show Kai Ora, and Turangawaewae Marae’s chief cooks.

Matariki music

	Hinewehi Mohi
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Hinewehi performed at the event, and she called on some of New Zealand’s most talented entertainers to help her. Dave Dobbyn, Hollie Smith, Tama Waipara, Whirimako Black, Nesian Mystik, Moana and the Tribe, Maisey Rika and Pania Papa were all on board to deliver an evening of exceptional local music and song.

Hekenukumai Busby, Hinewehi Mohi and Peter Gordon

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Download the Matariki Poster
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