The last major exhibition arranged by the Paekākāriki Station Museum was held over Matariki weekend in June 2025. The exhibition showcased the early history of Paekākāriki - as well as celebrating Matariki - through stories, speakers, displays, poetry and film. A glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the area. (There are ongoing smaller exhibitions on display at the Station Museum on the railway platform). For more photos and links to recordings of some of the talks, please visit this page.
Friday 20 June:
11am: Opening - Mayor Janet Holborow. MC Mark Amery
11:30 Kaia Hawkins - Matariki, a time of renewal and reflection
12:15 Miria Pōmare - the story of Kahe Te Rau-o-te-rangi, leader and chieftainess of Ngāti Toa who signed Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and became renowned for her seven mile swim from Kapiti to the mainland
1:30 Queen Elizabeth Park - Park Rangers John Tesoriero & Jordan Clear - restoration projects, wetting of the peat lands, future projects.
Saturday 21 June:
1pm MC Mark Amery - introductions followed by Thane Maxwell - early history
2pm Andy Dodd - Archaeology in Paekākāriki
2:45 Poet/storyteller/ musician Apirana Taylor.
Sunday 22 June:
1pm Jenny Rowan - the Wainuiwhenua project
1:45 Karl Webber - Kapiti Island stories and history
2:30 Jane Cherry - local stories - ‘I Remember When…’
Thanks to the Kāpiti Coast District Council for their support.
Waka recovered from Wainui Stream returns to Paekakariki for display
By Bride Coe
