Description:

At Matariki, the waterfront of Te Whanganui-a-Tara comes alive with a big, bold, immersive walk-through journey that honours our culture and history. The free, whānau-friendly Ahi Kā event features fire, performances, and large-scale projections, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for all attendees.

For the 2024 festival, the Wellington City Council commissioned a new projection work for the rear exterior of Te Papa. This innovative project aimed to captivate audiences with an interactive experience that delves into the narrative of te waka o Tamareretī.

The response to this space was an interactive projection work that explores the narrative of te waka o Tamareretī in the stars, unlocking stories in the constellations through tracing a pathway of glowing stars. Titled "Ngā Mātaiarorangi" (Stargazers), this projection invites participants to connect the dots between the stars, revealing the waka of Tamareretī and other pūrākau.

The design process for Ngā Mātaiarorangi was rooted in a combination of traditional knowledge, contemporary Māori design, and digital interactivity. The aim was to create an engaging and simple way for people of all ages to learn about Māori star knowledge during Matariki. The result is a marriage of these elements, offering a unique and immersive way to explore the stories of the stars.

The interactive projection work is designed with a large viewing audience in mind, making it perfect for the outdoor festival environment. Children and adults alike can enjoy getting up close to the projection and interacting with the touchscreen. The large projection surface allows viewers to see their actions in real-time, making them an integral part of the storytelling experience.

To embed the cultural narrative and provide context to the story of te waka o Tamareretī, a short introductory animation was created. As viewers progress through the work, they are encouraged to trace along a series of bright stars connected by lines. Completing each tracing reveals a part of the waka, unlocking a short series of stories told through a voice-over accompanied by timed graphics on the screen.

The graphics align with the names of stars and parts of the waka, providing an educational and engaging experience for viewers. Each of the three sections offers an overview of the meaning behind each star and its local Taranaki whānui connections.

Ngā Mātaiarorangi serves as a bridge between the past and the present, drawing on stories of celestial navigation to create a contemporary experience that resonates with today's audiences. By inviting people to interact with the projection and learn about the constellations, the work encourages a greater appreciation and understanding of Māori star knowledge and the cultural significance of Matariki.

The Ngā Mātaiarorangi projection at the Ahi Kā event is a stunning example of how traditional stories and modern technology can come together to create a meaningful and immersive experience. It honours the past, engages the present, and inspires future generations to connect with the rich cultural heritage of Te Ao Māori.