Tū Te Ihi references the energy and passion stirred by the Matariki cluster and the promise they herald. Tū Te Ihi celebrates a moment in the earth’s cycle when the stars of Matariki (Pleiades) draw our attention. Matariki conjures our ancestors as we recall their legacy, and reflect on the year that has been.

Tū Te Ihi extends across the cooler months of the natural world’s cycle and the arrival of the Matariki star cluster (Pleiades). Tū Te Ihi marks a time when we come together to share ideas, food and song and the nourishment of whānau (family).

Our ancestors feel especially close during Matariki. Tū Te Ihi honours them in a heart-warming ceremony known as Te Ahi Taitai (fire ceremony), before welcoming manuhiri (guests) into the tawa forest canopy.

Forest kai horotai (canapes) may include steaming pork and watercress broth, smoked snapper and moimoi (potato) croquettes, hearty mussel chowder, and hot kumara parcels.

Matariki celebrations then move to the wharenui (meeting house) during winter months where song, haka, storytelling, and performance become central.

A torchlit walk leads into a cosy wharekai (dining room) and a three-course family share style feast. Our famous hāngī shares a table with Māori fusion dishes developed and curated by acclaimed Māori chefs.

Celebration Includes

— Four hours of performance, drama, and kai
— Forest canapes
— Complimentary chef choice aperitif
— Three course Māori-fusion feast
— Complimentary return transport from central city

Children welcome
Dietary options (vegetarian, Pescatarian, Gluten free) available
Licensed bar – with kai paired wine list optional
Wheelchair and child buggy accessible