On 25 June, 2022, a squash event celebrating Matariki was held at Ōtaki Sports Club.

Here is a message from the squash Matariki komiti wrapping up the event.

Happy new year whanau!

And what a great way to start at the club with the inaugural Matariki squash celebration!

After months of hard work, dedication and preparation, the weekend finally arrived and it brought 36 registered players and approximately 30 supporters to the event who all gathered around the Matariki ceremony fire before being formally welcomed to the club with the conch shell and karanga ringing out with pohiri to commence the day at 7.45am.

Thereafter a debrief and event outline by Tasha and Erica and we were away! 2 rounds, 36 players and 72 hard fought games all played in a great social and festive spirit.

Games kicked off around 8.30 and concluded at 5.30pm. After some socialising and sharing fun stories about the day, the Matariki Banquet Dinner was ready at 7pm.

Set in a scene that resembled more of a restaurant setting, our club looked stunning and the food was beautiful while the players and guests were treated to kapahaka entertainment from club members and supporters Tasha Webby, Chaka Nikora, Keriana Stirling, Mahinarangi Hakaraia, Terama Winterburn, Tipi Wehipeihana, Pererika Nepia and Toni Thatcher.

On behalf of the Matariki Squash komiti, Tasha, Keriana, Chaka, Haapi, Pererika and Tipi, we want to thank everyone who supported the event from sponsors, to players and supporters, to whanau who selflessly gave their time & essence to this kaupapa at this time….the time of Matariki!

After the banquet, Karaoke entertainer extraordinaire, Pawana Harford, saw the evening out belting out tunes that saw the players dance and sing the night away with lights out at midnight.

A time to remember those who are no longer with us…

A time celebrate what and who we have now…

And a time to set goals and recalibrate for the new year ahead.

So happy new year whanau….may you enjoy and celebrate the next 12 months as we did on the weekend.

Kia ora me nga mihi

The Matariki komiti