Checkthegarden is a music, culture, and community platform that uplifts people through connection, creativity, and kaupapa.

Founded by Maiamaria Tarati Phillips, a Māori woman from Aotearoa with roots in the festival scene and a deep love for culture, Checkthegarden is about sharing real stories, safe spaces, and good energy.

I’ve promoted and attended countless events and festivals across Aotearoa, Europe, and South America. In those spaces, I found grounding, belonging, and friendships that changed my life. I’ve seen the power of culture, movement, and shared experience to bring people together.

This platform was created to share that feeling — a safe, soulful space for people to connect, express, and grow.

It’s for anyone searching for community, healing, or a deeper sense of self. Whether you’re on the dancefloor, in the ring, behind the decks, or sitting in silence — you’re part of this.

Look within. Look around. Check the garden.

 

 

We promote what matters — music, movement, wellbeing, and culture.

Everything we do is grounded in community, identity, and the belief that real connection heals.

 

Music and Events

 

We support and promote live music, festivals, and cultural gatherings across Aotearoa and the world. From grassroots gigs to international events, we highlight spaces that carry strong kaupapa and creative energy.

We work with:

• Māori, Pasifika, Latina and Indigenous-led events
• Local DJs, musicians, collectives, and organisers
• Culture-first festivals and safe party spaces
• Events that create freedom, connection, and expression

 

Combat Culture

 

We support fighters who train with discipline and live with purpose.

This part of Checkthegarden was inspired by my whānau and the strength I’ve seen in the combat community — especially in those using Muay Thai, boxing, or jiu-jitsu to stay grounded, heal, and grow.

We promote:

• Fighters in Muay Thai, Boxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
• Gyms that lead with values, not ego
• Wāhine toa, rangatahi, and kaupapa-driven trainers
• Stories of hauora, identity, and strength through movement

 

Wellbeing and Safe Partying

 

We believe music and movement should uplift — not harm.

We link up with local clinics and community services to promote:

• Safe partying education
• Drug checking and support services
• Consent culture and mental health awareness
• Access to safe sex resources and harm reduction tools

We want people to feel good, look after each other, and party with purpose.

 

Food and Culture

 

Food is a key part of community. We support and promote people sharing culture through kai.

We highlight:

• Whānau-run restaurants and food trucks
• Latin American, Māori, and Indigenous kai creators
• Community food spaces and cultural storytelling through food

 

Who This Is For

 

Checkthegarden is for artists, fighters, creatives, organisers, and everyday people doing real mahi for their communities.

If you’re creating something meaningful — or just looking to be part of something honest and grounded — this space is for you.

 

Want to Connect?

 

If you want to collaborate, get your event or story featured, or just share your kaupapa — get in touch.

Email: checkthegardenNZ@gmail.com

Instagram: @checkthegarden