Join storyteller and orator Pīta Turei on the knoll of Rangimatariki for the third in a series of oratory events that open up moments in time and place for Walking about.

From Rangimatariki there is a view across the Waitematā Harbour and out to the eastern horizon in the outer Hauraki Gulf where the matariki constellation can be seen. Standing on the knoll, we will observe matariki rising and listen to Pīta share histories of Tāmaki. Then, as dawn emerges, we’ll hikoi out to Motu Manawa across the mud flats.

Standing on the point of Rangimatariki, a history of the land and people can be told. One that anchors our cognisance of celestial progression through observation and the sharing of the oral histories of Tāmaki Makaurau. It is a history that acknowledges the significance of Rangi Matariki, Motu Manawa and Te Kou (Pollen Island Marine Reserve) for Te Wai o Hua and the people of Tāmaki.

Numbers for the matariki rising observance are open. However, to protect the delicate ecology of the marine reserve, numbers for the hikoi to Motu Manawa are limited to 20. Register to secure your place. The walk requires a reasonable degree of physical fitness and in parts crosses thick tidal mud. Gumboots or sturdy walking boots are a mandatory requirement for all walkers.

Rangi Matariki is presented as part of the 2020 Matariki Festival in partnership with Auckland Council.

Pīta Turei (Ngai Tai ki Tamaki, Ngati Paoa, Nga Rauru Kiitahi) comes from a background in dance and theatre. Turei is known as a kawa advisor, storyteller and orator sharing stories to empower a living population with the ancient histories of Tāmaki Makaurau.

Walking about is a series of performative and participatory walks that travel across Auckland with Te Hau ā Uru – the West Wind. The walks are artworks – guided experiences leading audiences and participants across Auckland. Its walks-as-artworks follow stories, pathways of the imagination and the senses, awa (rivers) and maunga (volcanic hills), uncovering the hidden trajectories of our urban and bush terrain.

Using seasonal and astronomical calendars, the walks will spread across the year, beginning in Mahuru (September) 2019 as the pīpīwharauroa begin to sing for spring and finishing in Aponga (August) as winter blows its last gusts.

Walking about is presented by Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery in partnership with curators Christina Houghton and Melissa Laing with support from Auckland Council and the Whau Local Board.