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Waiata, Wairua & Whanaungatanga - Celebrating Matariki Across Aged Care Homes
- AKA Ropu Waiata
- Jul 3, 2025
- 2 min read
AKA ropu waiata
This Matariki, we had the honour of visiting and celebrating with several incredible aged care facilities through a series of Matariki Waiata Sessions — and what a beautiful journey it has been.
A huge shout-out to the warm and welcoming teams and residents of:
🌟 Freelingholt Resthome
🌟 Rawhiti Estate
🌟 Logan Campbell (Hospital, Serviced Apartments, and Resthome)
🌟 Bupa Hugh Green
🌟 Lady Allum
Each visit was filled with music, meaning, laughter, tears, and the magic of shared presence. We sang waiata, told the pūrākau (stories) of the Matariki stars, danced poi, and reflected on the past, present, and future together. In every space, there was a sense of unity — of people coming together, regardless of background, to honour memory and celebrate life.
What made this experience even more powerful was our team itself. Only one of us is Māori, yet each of us felt deeply connected to the kaupapa of Matariki. Our group represents a beautiful cross-section of the world — the Philippines, India, China, Macau, Chile, Fiji, and Vietnam — all walking together in respect and aroha for Te Ao Māori.
This is the heart of Matariki: it’s about coming together to remember, to give thanks, and to dream. We may come from different homelands, but through waiata and shared experiences, we found a common rhythm — and with that, created core memories that will stay with us forever.
For many of our residents, especially those living with dementia, the songs unlocked long-held memories and emotions. For others, it was a chance to sing, smile, or simply feel seen. For us, it was life-changing.
To everyone who sang with us, welcomed us, or simply sat and listened — ngā mihi nui. Thank you for letting us be part of your Matariki celebration. We carry your stories with us. Forever.
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