Hikaia ngā ahi o Matariki
Hikaia ngā ahi o Te Kahu Tōpuni o Tuperiri

Light the ceremonial fires of Matariki
Light the ceremonial fires of our lands.

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei have maintained ahikāroa in Tāmaki for more than three centuries. The long burning fires of occupation are alight and steadfast. Since the time of Tuperiri, they have not flickered and continue to burn bright. 

This year, Vector Lights and Matariki Festival are honoured with a story from iwi partners, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei , about their ahi kā in Tāmaki Makaurau. This light show has been specially curated and represents the ahikāroa - the long burning fires of occupation. For Ngāti Whātua, this is an enduring relationship with the land across many centuries - where people cultivate gardens, cook food, and build homes. Where people raise their children and grandchildren on the same lands. Where loved ones are ultimately laid to rest. 

The show runs for 6 minutes and plays every half hour from 6pm until midnight.

Vector Lights on Auckland Harbour Bridge is part of a smart energy partnership between Vector, Auckland Council and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.