Matariki Cultural Foundation

The Back story...

The Matariki Cultural Foundation is a non-profit charitable trust that operates independently. It was founded in 2009 by the seven Auckland legacy councils as the Tamaki Makaurau Matariki Festival Trust to oversee the 'Matariki Festival' previously managed by the Auckland Council.

From 2010 to 2014, the trust focused on Nga Toi Maori programming for various events including Films on Marae, Maori Music showcases like Tiramarama and the Oceania Music Series held in May. It also secured a major sponsorship with 2Degrees for a period of three years.

During non-festival times, the trust collaborated to celebrate the inaugural International Jazz Day in 2013 with the Auckland Museum and Maori/Pacific Musicians. Under the leadership of George Te Aroha Kahi, jazz tunes were recorded and translated into Te Reo Maori with Maori Musicians such as Alana Goldsmith, June Pittman, Maree Sheehan, Emma Paki, and others.

In 2014, the decision was made not to transition the Matariki Festival to the Trust, but programming for the festival continued until 2015. During this period, the Trust established a Nga Toi community hub named 'Waikare on Q' on Karangahape Road, fostering Maori and Pacific arts through exhibitions, fashion events, and other initiatives.

George Te Aroha Kahi's dedication to Waiata Maori led to partnerships aiming to elevate Te Reo Maori and Pacific languages within the music industry, supporting emerging and mid-tier artists in building sustainable careers.

The Trust collaborated with Puatatangi (Toi Aoteoara) to develop a National Maori Music Strategy, conducting workshops in Tamaki Makaurau and drafting a regional music strategy. Although not formally endorsed by the industry, this document served as a foundation for the Trust's music initiatives.

Since 2016, the foundation has participated in WOMEX (World Music Expo) to showcase Maori and Pacific music on a global stage. Additionally, facilitating the World Music Pan Indigenous Network since 2018, fostering collaboration with other Indigenous music communities, globally.