Our Matariki Songwriting Workshop, co facilitated by Te Mana Hā in partnership with Whakatū Pride, will create an inclusive space where people can come together to celebrate Matariki through collaborative music-making.

This workshop extends that kaupapa by inviting participants to explore songwriting as a creative pathway into te ao Māori.

The workshop welcomes LGBTQ+ community members and allies, alongside anyone interested in learning, connecting, and expressing themselves through music.

Participants will be supported to craft original lyrics and melodies inspired by the themes of Matariki: reflection, remembrance, celebration, and aspirations for the year ahead. By creating songs together, participants build meaningful connections across diverse identities and experiences. This shared creative process becomes a powerful way to honour Matariki while strengthening community cohesion, cultural understanding, and belonging.

As a free, accessible event, the workshop encourages whānau, individuals, and newcomers to te ao Māori to join in.

Facilitator Maria Oxnam, supported by Te Mana Hā members and Pride community collaborators, will lead participants through lyric writing, melody development, and collaborative composition. Maria’s teaching approach emphasises connection, confidence-building, and cultural grounding. Participants will be introduced to kupu Māori.