Dawn Ceremony

The extended whānau of Corban Estate Art Centre invite you to join us for a community celebration of fire, karakia, kai to create a sense of place and belonging as we gather to mark the opening of Matariki Festival 2024.

In what has become a tradition here at Corban Estate, our Dawn Ceremony will involve the burning of the paper wishbones that bear the wishes of community who participated in Penny Howard’s interactive installation Hiwa-i-te-Rangi: The Wishing Star.

Join us as we cast reflections, prayers, and intentions into the flames at dawn, to be granted by Hiwa-i-te-Rangi – the wishing star of Te Tau Hau Māori, in a symbol of hope, growth, and prosperity for the year ahead.

Dress warm and come prepared for a chilly start to the morning, beginning in darkness as we welcome the dawn together around the fire. Your participation is encouraged, with the opportunity to say a few words, read a poem or sing a song, with community wellbeing as our guide.

Please feel free to bring kai to share together if you wish.