Three new exhibitions celebrating the themes of Matariki are now on display at The Incubator Creative Hub, following their launch at the creative hub’s monthly Art Street Party.

The exhibitions at Tauranga’s Historic Village bring together artists ranging from emerging students to experienced practitioners, exploring themes of remembrance, renewal, identity and connection through a diverse range of creative works.

Incubator Creative Hub director Simone Anderson said Matariki provides the perfect opportunity to bring people together through creativity.

“Matariki is a time to reflect, celebrate new beginnings and connect with one another. These exhibitions capture that spirit beautifully, bringing together artists at different stages of their creative journeys and sharing stories that connect our past, present and future.”

In The People’s Gallery Toi Ka Rere, Ngā Hihi o Matariki features work by students from Te Wānanga o Aotearoa studying Toi Paematua Toi Ataata.

“The exhibition showcases creative exploration through toi Māori and contemporary practice, with works inspired by the themes of Matariki, including remembrance, resilience, renewal and aspiration,” Anderson said.

The Pot House Gallery is hosting Cera’muka, a collection of hand-sculpted ceramics by Hayley Smith. The exhibition combines ceramic works with muka extracted from harakeke, creating traditional Māori-inspired adornments that celebrate the Matariki season.

“This is Hayley Smith’s first solo exhibition, and the works are glazed and fired using our community kilns, encompassing many years of the sharing of Hayley’s knowledge to deliver this body of work,” Anderson said.

Northern Health School pupil Harry Ward, 7, with artwork created for the exhibition at The Incubator Gallery. Photo / Kelly O’Hara

The Incubator Gallery is presenting Te Waka o Rangi: Stories Written in the Stars, a collaborative exhibition by students from Northern Health School.

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Northern Health School as our feature exhibition in the Incubator Gallery this Matariki,” Anderson said.

“Their beautiful display explores Te Waka o Rangi and the many layers of meaning held within Matariki – stars, stories and remembrance – brought to life through harakeke whetū and a striking manu tukutuku created by ākonga.”

Anderson said the exhibition also explores What’s in a Name?, where curiosity about the local street names Harata Way and Hoariri Way led pupils to research local history. This included the story of Harata of Ngāi Tamarāwaho and the Battle of Pukehinahina (Gate Pā), with knowledge shared by Ngāi Tamarāwaho kaumātua Tamati Tata.

She said the exhibitions highlight the important role creativity plays in building confidence and strengthening community.

“Every person who walks through the door helps an artist take that next step, build confidence and feel seen.”

The exhibitions are open daily from 10am to 3pm until July 25.