Matariki 2023

Published on July 21, 2023

Matariki is a special time to remember loved ones who have passed away, celebrate the present with family and friends, and look forward to the promise of a new year. We partnered with Muaūpoko Tribal Authority and Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga to provide a jam-packed programme to celebrate this special time of year.

The programme began with Te Mauri o Matariki ki Te Awahou – Karakia at Foxton Beach on Thursday 15 June at 5am, and will conclude with the popular annual Taitoko Matariki Night Market at Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō on Saturday 22 July.

We also bought back the popular annual Night Lights over Te Awahou and Matariki ki Otāuru (Shannon) events for friends and whānau to enjoy live entertainment, food and stalls.

Other Matariki events include karakia, crafts, book readings, movies and a pool party for whānau and tamariki, Matariki Day Out for kaumatua and older people, and the opportunity to learn about rongoā – traditional Māori healing.

Ngā mihi o Matariki, te tau hou Māori, ki a tātou katoa.

Wishing you all a happy Matariki.