Viaduct Harbour presents Maruata Rikoriko for Matariki

Coming to Viaduct Harbour on the 17th June

In celebration of Matariki, Viaduct Harbour, in collaboration with artists Graham Tipene and Amy Hawke of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, presents ‘Maruata Rikoriko’, a powerful community installation that embodies the spirit of whakawhanaungatanga (connection) and kotahitanga (unity) through shared experiences of kai (food) and kōrero (conversation).

Maruata Rikoriko can be interpreted as ‘the shimmering light of early dawn’, evoking calm, peace, and a sense of awakening. Rikoriko also connects to the name of the harbour, ‘Te Waitematā’, commonly translated in some kōrero as ‘sparkling waters’.

At its heart is a bespoke tēpu, a sculptural, functional table designed to foster connection and community. More than public art, the tēpu invites people to gather, reflect, and share in the spirit of Matariki.

Framed by two carved pou (pillars), the installation is both symbolic and welcoming. Situated in Market Square, it will be open to the community from 17th of June til the 13th of July. By placing a community tēpu in the heart of the Viaduct Harbour, a space is created where the community can come together, share kai, kōrero, take in the Waitematā and bring some of the values of Matariki to life.

The installation is the result of a powerful collaboration between three groups, each bringing their unique skills and cultural insight. At its heart are Tipene and Hawke, whose creative leadership shaped both the kaupapa and the form of the space. They have worked closely with Critical, a Māori-owned company that supplied the installation’s striking Cleanstone panels. Made from 100% recycled plastic waste and reclaimed fishing nets, the panels embody a story of connection and environmental stewardship, one that reflects the values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship).

The two pou and tēpu were constructed and carved by Jacob Scott and Jason Kendrick of Te Ara Hihiko, renowned for integrating whakairo (carving) into architecture and public spaces. Their approach fuses traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, offering a contemporary expression of Māori identity.

As Matariki rises, so too does the opportunity to connect with one another, with tradition, and with the whenua. Whether sharing kai at the tēpu, discovering stories through the whakairo or savouring a one-of-a-kind dish by the wai, Viaduct Harbour invites you to connect, reflect, and celebrate what matters most this Matariki season.

Location: Market Square, Viaduct Harbour
Dates: June 17 - July 13

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A Taste of Matariki

Further celebrating the importance of kai, a selection of Viaduct Harbour restaurants have created bespoke dishes inspired by Matariki.

Discover the full menu of Matariki specials here and savour the stories, flavours and whanaungatanga that make this time of year so special.