That's a Wrap on Feast Matariki 2023

Well, that’s a wrap on Feast Matariki for this year! We’ve loved working with Ngāi Tahu whānau to explore Mahika Kai this Matariki.

Anyone who had the opportunity to listen to the stories of those who hold the knowledge of some of our most treasured species and places understood the intimate connection to our natural world, and the importance of the relationship. It was such a special thing to be able to listen to these kōrero and taste the kai alongside the stories.

We’ll continue to find ways to celebrate the depth and complexity of our food story here in Aotearoa. Thank you to everyone who supported our collective efforts.

Nau mai ngā hua

Nau mai ngā pai

Nau mai kia nui Kia hāwere ai

Welcome all things that have grown

Welcome all things that are good

May they be plentiful and abundant

Angela Clifford, CE Eat New Zealand. @eat.newzealand

#KnowYourFarmer #KnowYourFisher #EatNZGrains #GrowFoodCommunities #EatNZKaitaki #RepurposeTheSurplus #LotsOfLittle #Biodiversity #FeastMatariki #MahikaKai

Matariki on Rakiura

Last weekend we spent an amazing few days on Rakiura / Stewart Island celebrating Feast Matariki with locals and visitors. A huge thanks to our Southern Eat NZ Kaitaki who stepped up and helped deliver a rich and community centric celebration.

The Davis Sisters, Lania and Petra, showed us how best to break down a tītī (muttonbird) and shared stories of their experiences growing up harvesting on the tītī islands with their father. It's an important part of their lives and we were so grateful for their generosity and sharing. The tītī they processed became part of the evening feast - roasted whole with stuffing and served with plum sauce.

Fisher Nate Smith showed us how to break down a host of kaimoana he had harvested in the days prior. From butterfish to hapuka, crayfish, and pāua. We all learned so much and the community was particularly blown away by the outstanding kai prepared by our chef crew made up of Josh Hunter (Eat NZ Kaitaki & Whakapapa of Your Kai), Finbar McCarthy (Chef at Gatherings) and his partner Harriet Owens. Together they presented some incredible food over two days, using just three charcoal BBQs and a whole lot of heart!

Keep an eye on our socials as we will share more photos and videos from the celebrations here.

Once Were Gardeners in Ōtepoti

Our Eat NZ Kaitaki Fi Clements hosted a group at her home in Ōtepoti for the 'Once Were Gardeners' Mahika Kai workshop on Saturday 22nd July.Fellow Eat NZ Kaitaki Ella Cameron Smith went along and shared learnings in the maara kai around Hua Parekore, cacao tasting and nutrient-dense kai. It was a beautiful and intimate occasion designed to inspire ways to celebrate Matariki in an urban setting.

An evening at Mīharo in Murihiku

Not even a closed road would stop us from a brilliant day celebrating Feast Matariki in Murihiku - thanks to the amazing wāhine from Mīharo for stepping in last minute. They shared stories about Matariki and Chris Fraser from Miele Apiaries entertained the tamariki (and adults!) with his honey tutorial - complete with live bees and honey tasting.

In the evening we heard a series of special kōrero led by MC Dr. Hana O'Regan and personal stories from Mahika kai experts Corey Bragg, Dan Tarrant of Ruapuke Uncut, Steph Blair and David Ihimaera. What they shared was heartfelt and inspiring and it was a privilege to be in the room.

It was all matched with delicious kai that spoke to Mahika Kai. From tītī boil up with star-shaped fry bread to represent Matariki and more!

Sign the Petition!

There are so many reasons we need to #fixourfoodsystem and the development of a national food strategy for Aotearoa is a crucial place to start. This petition is all about demanding the Government to take notice and act.

It takes less than 10 seconds to show your support for a better food future in Aotearoa. Sign the petition here.