Matariki week at Mercy Hospital, Dunedin is an annual occurrence and one where Mercy staff are invited to get involved in various activites organised by the Māori Kaihautū Leadership Team. This year we celebrated Matariki with a range of activities getting staff involved as they were able around the campus. Mercy staff and their families were also invited to participate in a Matariki colouring competition over the course of the week, with prizes for the different categories.
Rāhina 16 Pipiri was Matariki Hunga Nui – remembrance where we shared waiata, remembered those who have died and distributed Te Tiriti books to all our departments at Mercy Hospital.
Rātu 17 Pipiri was Matariki Ahunga Nui – Celebrating the Present where we had shared kai with hangi from Harbourside Hangi and a Matariki Quiz to test staff knowledge of Matariki.
Rāapa 18 Pipiri was Matariki Ahunga Nui – Celebrating the Present where we had had flax weaving sessions learning to weave flowers and stars, and twirling the poi.
Rāpere 19 Pipiri was Matariki Manako Nui – Looking to the Future where we gave vege seeds to all staff for planting in their gardens and we planted a Kahikatea native tree in our campus.
All in all, a great week of celebration finished off with a Matariki holiday for everyone to rest, reflect and relax.
Mānawatia ā Matariki!
By Alofa Lale Kaiwhakahaere Mīhana | Mission and Outreach Co-ordinator
