“Matariki is thought to be around one hundred million years old.” Vilquin said sending a telescope to the event is “a bit of a gamble weather-wise’’. Even if the weather is good, the light pollution over Timaru will make it quite a different experience than at its Takapō/Tekapo base, said Vilquin. Valentina Bellomo/Stuff Matt Blain, of the Timaru Fire Bugs, will be among the performers at Friday’s Matariki Night Market. (File photo) He said one night and one day time guide from the Dark Sky Project will accompany the telescope, and will be able to discuss the cultural significance of Matariki.