Meet Tyla Harrison-Hunt and learn how he celebrates Matariki

As we prepare to celebrate Matariki across Aotearoa, we talked to Tyla Harrison-Hunt, Councillor for the Riccarton Ward at the Christchurch City Council, Youth and Multicultural Portfolio Lead, about what Matariki means to him. His key interest areas lie in social equity, youth, multiculturalism, climate action, sport and business and he has travelled the world as a public speaker who advocated for peace, connectedness and tolerance.

What does Matariki mean to you and your family?

Matariki is a time for reflection for for our whānau (family) to remember those who came before us and to learn from those who come after us. It's a holistic occasion encompassing everything in the world to connect us on more than just what we see. I was raised on the principles of Matariki, family would always come over, the karaoke would be humming in the garage and food would always be cooking.

How will you be marking/celebrating Matariki this year?

We will head out to Taumutu in Selwyn, to our pā, Ngāti Moki, to show my daughter the stars, have whānau around to share some kai (food), and look back on old stories from my nan!

What does Matariki mean to you and how does this show up in your day to day?

Matariki encompasses everything, from growth to loss, to learning, to kindness. It's a part of our daily lives in so many ways. Matariki gets you to take time out, put your feet back on the whenua (ground), remember who you are, and celebrate life with those close to you! In my day-to-day, as a decision-maker, it covers all of what Matariki is about. Essentially, discussing huge issues and coming together for the best outcome for our people and our city. Also, as a father, the values of Matariki are fundamental in raising my daughter to be strong, resilient, kind, and to value her identity.

Are there any ways in which you feel Noho tahi (Coming together) holds significance during Matariki?

Matariki is truly for everyone, traditionally, it was for harvesting kai (food), honouring our tūpuna (ancestors), and coming together to share kai (food) and sing! Too often, we seem too busy to come together, but Matariki encourages us to slow down and have some fun with our friends and whānau. It's great for the wairua (spirit), great for the tummy, and great for the vocal cords. Christchurch does have some good karaoke joints!

Are there any ways in which you feel Tuakiritanga (Identity) holds significance during Matariki?

Our identity is so valuable to us as Māori and as people. Understanding who you are, where you're from, and what you stand for, shows the world what makes you special. Some may not have the privilege of knowing those things, so only we can define what makes us who we are. Our stories, our families, and our friends, all guide us along the way of figuring out this journey we're on. My daughter is Māori and Pakistani, she comes from a strong bloodline of three tribes of Ngai Tahu, Ngāti Porou, and Te Atiawa, she is also from Bannu, Pakistan. That is something we always want to pass on. You are special.

To finish, there's a whakatauki (proverb) from Ngai Tahu - that says "Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri, ā muri ake nei - For us, and those after us." - It talks about the decisions we make for now and for the future.

You can find out more about Tyla and his work here> and how you can celebrate with Westfield, friends and whānau (family) here