Matariki is an opportunity for kai and community, and schools across Mid Canterbury are making the most of it.

It’s the second year that Matariki has been acknowledged with a public holiday, officially June 28.

Ashburton Christian School took the opportunity to celebrate its newest facilities with parents and students this week.

The technology block began hosting classes earlier this term, and includes an art room, a digital technology room and a hard materials room.

Having workshops on-site has made a huge difference, hard materials teacher Darren Butler said.

“Before this was open, we were teaching out of the Menz Shed, and the technology centre on McLean Street.”

“When students were off site, we had to timetable big chunks of the day,” added acting principal Margaret Butler.

“And the cost of everything as well, with bussing students to and from places.”

The cost of the buildings was unknown as funding was managed by a trust, Butler said.

“We have a new building going up, a food tech and PE room, that will hopefully open next year.”

Hot food, student baking and hot drinks were dished out over the event to keep the masses warm and fed.

“Well, as you can see the people are happy,” said parent Danny Cajucom, serving pork buns alongside Neil Catalos.

Their kids performed during the night, and they hope the Matariki tradition sticks.

There were choirs, bible readings and a Pasifika group that provided entertainment as the night sky dimmed.

Fiona Ward, organiser of the event, said this was the first time this year the whole school had gotten together.

“Matariki is where we can stop in the middle of winter and go ‘Phew! Look at what we’ve done this year.’”

She said seeing the families made it worth the months of planning.

“We’ve got to celebrate being together, and be thankful for everything we have.”

Other schools took part in Matariki celebrations, including Chertsey School which put on a shared lunch on Wednesday.

There was a special assembly that included kapa haka which the children performed with gusto.

Principal Claire Marie said Matariki has been a part of the school’s culture for many years, not just since it became a public holiday.

A planned sports day was rained out so the children and their whanau took part in a quiz instead.

Methven Primary School’s Matariki evening on Thursday focussed on the meanings of two stars in the cluster.

The Matariki star, which represents gatherings and community, and the Pōhutukawa Star, which reminds people to honour loved ones who have passed away.

By Anisha Satya and Julie Moffett