Image credit: Jinki Cambronero
Over the years, we've had the honour of hosting and supporting incredible kaupapa aligned with Matariki. In 2023, we had Mahuta - Music for Matariki in Loft, which was a three-night series of homegrown music featuring the talents of Jenny Mitchell and the Mitchell Twins, Anna Coddington, and MOHI. Last year, Mahuta continued with two evenings in Rangatira - a concert with national treasure, Maisey Rika, followed by a Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei evening of music with Majic Paora, waiata, haka, dance, storytelling, and more. We feel so privileged to have been a part of these special celebrations!
Images: Photos from 2023 and 2024 Mahuta events, image of Maisey Rika and Majic Paora by Julie Zhu.
This year, as Matariki approaches once again, we’re delighted to have some incredible shows and initiatives happening in our venues. On the eve of the official Matariki public holiday, two beloved comedy voices will grace our stages: Kura Forrester and James Roque. Armed with plenty of jokes and humorous stories to share, we're looking forward to Rangatira and Loft being filled with laughter and joy - something we could all use as we gather to celebrate this time.
We're also proud to support an incredibly special initiative this week for the next generation of music makers: a Matariki Wānanga for Rangatahi, presented by the New Zealand Music Commission and supported by the Ministry of Education. This event is happening across our venue spaces from 16 - 18 June - a free wānanga designed to uplift and empower passionate music ākonga who are eager to grow their skills and confidence in music and songwriting.
At this event, powerful voices in the New Zealand music industry will mentor students and lead collaborative workshops, including Aro, Troy Kingi, Laughton Kora, and more. Opportunities like this are important for the future of our industry, and we're honoured to have this wānanga in our whare.
As Matariki reminds us to connect, to care, and to look forward, we at Q are deeply grateful to be a space where stories are shared, new talent is nurtured, and our community is celebrated.
Ngā mihi o Matariki, te tau hou Māori. Wishing you all a joyful and reflective Matariki season.
