Hundreds of Playcentre children and their parents gathered at Pipitea Marae this morning to celebrate Matariki, Maori New Year.

The children and parents came from the 21 different Playcentres in the Wellington region and for many it was their first marae experience.

The event began at 9.30am with a powhiri followed by morning tea and activties provided by the Ngati Poneke Maori Arts Club. Some of the activties included poi, taiaha and waiata (singing) workshops.

Playcentre spokesman Inge Doig said that the event was to celebrate Matariki and to allow the children to become more familiar with aspects of Maoritanga.

She said she hoped the event would also introduce children to the importance of biculturalism.

"I think it's very important that children learn about the Maori culture and are aware that we live in a bicultural society."

Organisers Rachelle Hautapu,she hoped the event would allow children become accustomed to Maori customs and culture.

 "In the end we want this to become natural for them, to come to the marae; the natural meeting place for the maori people."

The event was held for the first time last year and will become an annual event.

- The Wellingtonian

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