Matariki Thank you

On 29 June 2024, a Matariki celebration was hosted at ADS.  This event was organised by our Māori Deaf and wider Deaf community with support from ADS, and generously funded by Puketapapa Local Board. 

Since our move to Hillsborough in 2020, Puketapapa have been the new Local Board area for our Auckland Deaf community.

Our Matariki event included:

• Beautiful Māori kai including Hangi, Stuffing, Steamed Pudding, Frybread, Rawfish, Seafood Chowder and Mussel Curry prepared and served by volunteers from our Māori Deaf community and wider Deaf Community

•  A presentation from one Māori Deaf, including the nine signs for the Matariki stars

• Temporary Moko Kauae (Female) and Mataora (Male)

• Deaf haka performance

ADS wishes to give a special thank you to all of the volunteers who were involved in preparing and serving the delicious kai that was provided, or in organising the other activities at this event.

We would also extend our heartfelt thanks to Puketapapa Local Board, who have shown their generous support for our Deaf community by covering the full cost of this event.  We hope to continue to build on our relationship with Auckland Council and Puketapapa Local Board in the future, and to grow our connections with our local community. Handwaves!