Matariki Kai: Winter Menu Ideas for a Shared Feast

Warming, seasonal menu ideas for a Matariki gathering — easy to share, easy to scale.

Sharing kai is at the heart of many Matariki gatherings. Winter produce and slow cooking make it easy to feed a crowd.

Mains

Hāngī-style slow-roasted pork, chicken and lamb (oven or slow cooker)

Pork and watercress boil-up

Big pot of seafood chowder

Hearty vegetable and lentil stew for vegetarian guests

Roasted kūmara, pumpkin and parsnips

Rewena bread with butter and golden syrup

Steamed greens with garlic

Steamed pudding with custard

Feijoa or apple crumble

Kūmara brownies

Kawakawa tea

Hot chocolate station for kids

Mulled apple juice

Ask everyone to bring a dish so the load is shared

Keep food warm in slow cookers or chilly bins lined with towels

Start with a karakia or a few words of welcome if it suits your whānau