A time to reflect, connect and celebrate: Matariki at The Hearing House

1 hour ago
2 min read

Earlier this month, we were delighted to bring our kiritaki/clients and whānau together for a special Matariki celebration at The Hearing House. Joined by members of Deaf Aotearoa, it was a great opportunity to pause, reflect and connect in the spirit of the Māori New Year.

From the moment people arrived, there was a strong sense of connection, warmth and aroha. Through kōrero, waiata and shared moments, we were reminded of the importance of coming together and acknowledging both our individual and collective journeys.

Hearing from our kiritaki was a particularly special part of the celebration.

Chevelle Novina Aupouri shared a beautiful kōrero in te reo Māori about the stars of Matariki and their meanings, offering insight into the traditions and stories that guide this time of year.

**Chevelle sharing insights about the stars of Matariki**

Len Byles also reflected on his own journey, sharing both his passion for art and his experiences of his first year with a cochlear implant. Len also spoke about MEGA, one of his pieces now on display at The Hearing House, reflecting on the journey from darkness to light — a transition from uncertainty into clarity, connection, and confidence, shaped by the support of those around him.

Len and Pam with The Hearing House CEO Claire Green, alongside Len’s artwork MEGA — **Len and Pam with The Hearing House CEO Claire Green, alongside Len’s artwork** ***MEGA***

We all shared beautiful kai and then, later in the day, everyone took part in a lantern-making activity, creating something tangible to reflect on Matariki and take home as a reminder of the day.

We had some lovely feedback from kiritaki who attended the event. Len and Pam shared:

“Pam and myself would like to thank you and all The Hearing House staff for a wonderful Matariki celebration. Beautiful food, beautiful people – it was a very nice day.”

Other kiritaki, including Faye, Catherine and Vicki, also shared reflections on the strong sense of connection they experienced throughout the day:

“We talked about how much the aroha and camaraderie enveloped and meant to us… right from when we arrived and we were greeted, we felt welcome. Embracing and learning more of the meanings of Matariki was a gift/pounamu which we will keep with us. Kapai Chevelle — your kōrero was beautiful. And making the Matariki lanterns was really special… they will be a beautiful reminder of our day at The Hearing House.”

**Our kiritaki/client Faye at the Matariki celebration**

The day was a powerful reminder of what Matariki represents: reflection, connection, and looking ahead with hope. We are so grateful to everyone who joined us and helped create such a meaningful and memorable celebration.