MATARIKI-new exhibition at MAI Gallery

Mangawhai Artists celebrate Matariki

The stars have aligned as Te Ata Hou Roopu and Friends United return to the Mangawhai Artists Gallery with their annual Matariki Art Exhibition. The exhibition opened on the Friday of the Matariki long weekend with a vibrant celebration of art, culture and community.

Featuring nine emerging and established artists from the Kaipara region and beyond, the exhibition presents an inspiring collection of Māori-inspired works created from pounamu, harakeke, resin, fibres, wood, sand, corrugated iron and mixed media.

Exhibition coordinator Keri Craike says it is a privilege to welcome both returning and new artists.

"We are honoured to welcome back a wonderful mix of returning artists alongside talented new local artists. This exhibition celebrates Matariki through kotahitanga, bringing people together in the spirit of unity, connection and community."

Visitors will experience an exciting variety of artistic styles and stories. Flax weaver Britta Conrad showcases intricate harakeke weaving inspired by decades of dedication to the traditional Māori art of raranga, while Amanda Mangu draws on traditional and modern practices to present contemporary woven works exploring remembrance, renewal and the connection between people and the land.

Keri Craike's own intuitive mixed-media works combine collage, paint and sculptural techniques to create deeply personal expressions of wairua and healing. Julie Lumsden's tactile felted artworks celebrate the versatility of New Zealand wool through innovative needle-felting techniques that explore colour, texture and form.

Kaiwaka resin artist Danielle Adams draws inspiration from nature and her Māori and English heritage, creating richly layered works that reflect connection, strength and belonging. Meanwhile, Benji Musson's evocative artworks, inspired by the ocean, nature and spirituality, capture the movement and energy of Aotearoa's coastline through expressive painting and his renowned beach sand art.

Founded in 2024 by local Māori artists, Te Ata Hou Roopu and Friends United brings together artists who share a passion for creativity, culture and community. Guided by the values of kotahitanga (unity) and manaakitanga (care and protection), the collective continues to inspire connection and understanding through its annual Matariki exhibition.

The exhibition is open for a fortnight throughout the Matariki season at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery, inviting visitors to celebrate the Māori New Year through art, storytelling and community.

‘Matariki’ is on show now at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery, 45 Moir Street, Mangawhai, open daily from 10.30am to 3.30pm (and from 9am on Saturdays) until Thursday 23 July 2026.