In 2021 the Matamata-Piako Libraries collaborated with Wallace Art Gallery on Te Toi Tūāhu - a local project to celebrate art and ceremony, focused on the knowledge of Matariki within public and open non-traditional spaces. The project took place over 7 months from June – December 2021 in three phases.

The initial phase of “in-library wānanga” created opportunities to discuss, interpret and understand the cultural significance of Matariki and its practices in several libraries in the Matamata-Piako district.
Following this, and in liaison with local iwi (supported by local practitioners of Te Ao Māori, oral history and environmental care) a community led Matariki Ceremony was held at the top of Maungakaawa, supported by Ngāti Hauā kaumatua and historians.

The final phase of this project was held in the Community Creative Space at the Wallace Gallery in Morrinsville over one weekend with creative practitioners sharing their cultural and/or creative process.
Participants of all ages were then able to explore creative ideas as they reflected on the earlier teachings.
This work will be presented at our libraries and Wallace Gallery (167 Thames St, Morrinsville)  during the following dates:

Morrinsville Library and the Wallace Gallery Morrinsville: 3 March until 24th April 2022.

Morrinsville Library will stay open until 8pm on Friday 18 March so people can come and view the artworks and share it with friends and whānau.  Normal library services will also be available until 8pm on this day.

Matamata Library: 3 May until 18 June 2022

Te Aroha Library: 20 June - end date to be confirmed