Matariki Through Kia's Lens
In Te Ao Māori (Māori culture), a new year begins in winter, with the rising of stars. Matariki is known elsewhere as the Pleiades Cluster, appears over the eastern horizon of Aotearoa (New Zealand) between late June and early July. This year, Matariki is celebrated on 10 July, its arrival marked through both celebration and quiet reflection.
Traditionally, Matariki celebrations involve three things: the viewing of the stars, a remembrance of those who have passed, and an offering of kai (food). For Auckland chef Kia Kanuta, one of Aotearoa's most celebrated culinary voices, it is also something more personal: "a reminder to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the Life I have and the people who make it all worthwhile."
During Matariki, Kia’s kitchen becomes a place of remembrance. Dishes made and beloved by whānau (family), some of whom have long since passed, reemerge in his kitchen and on the plates of those around him. Food, for Kia, is a love language, and during Matariki, that language carries particular weight.
This Matariki, Cloudy Bay is proud to share a recipe Kia has crafted in the spirit of the New Year: a dish inspired by one of his Nan’s favourite meals, rooted in memory, shaped by the whenua (land), and made to be shared.