Celebrate Matariki in Auckland

Matariki marks the start of the Māori New Year, signified by the Matariki cluster of stars reappearing in the night sky. It's a time to reflect on the past year, cherish the present, and set intentions for the year ahead.

Explore the Matariki Festival 2026

  • Created by Kaituhi

    Discover Auckland

  • Date updated Rā Whakahou

    25 Jun

  • Items Ngā Wahanga

    14

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Map

Ngā whetu (the stars) herald the arrival of Māori New Year with the appearance of the Matariki star cluster (also known as Pleiades or The Seven Sisters) in the predawn Winter sky – an important time in the New Zealand calendar.

Matariki is a time to reflect on the previous year and plan for the next. It's a welcome opportunity to celebrate with a special dawn ceremony, kai (food), kōrero (conversation), waiata (singing), and entertainment. To celebrate Māori New Year, Auckland hosts an annual Matariki Festival over two weeks in Winter (June/July). 

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How to celebrate Matariki with your whānau

Six of Auckland’s cultural organisations are bringing you a range of Matariki events across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland in 2026. Each one rooted in te ao Māori and woven around the whetū of the Matariki cluster. 

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