Celebrating Matariki

Gather the whānau and celebrate Matariki Māori New Year at the New Zealand Maritime Museum this June.

  • Words by New Zealand Maritime Museum
  • Last updated 16 Oct 2025

Scroll to discover our exciting lineup of events this Matariki. 

Location Te wāhi
New Zealand Maritime Museum
Corner of Quay and Hobson Street, Auckland 1140
Plan your route
Getting there Te huarahi ki reira

The Museum is a short walk from the centre of town and Britomart station. There are also parking buildings nearby on Pakenham St East and Market Lane.

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Kaui Whetū – Make Days

Fri 20 - Sun 22 June, 10am - 2pm | Free, drop-ins are welcome

Join us at the water’s edge to make your own tukutuku whētu. Explore the symbolism of the moana in traditional Māori weaving through this whānau-friendly activity and celebrate the magic of Matariki among the museum's maritime heritage. Thank you to Whatu Creative for their involvement.

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Toi Whakairo: Master Carving in Action

Fri 20 - Sun 22 June, 10am - 2pm | Free 

Visit the heritage boat-building shed, Percy Vos, and witness master carver Wikuki Kingi (Tainui, Ngāi Tai, Raukawa, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Ngāi Tahu, Hawai‘i) and his crew as they bring the art of Toi Māori and Whakairo to life, carving a waka and weaving a harakeke sail.

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Live Storytelling: Whetū Wāhine

Fri 20 Jun, 10.30am & 11.30am | Free, bookings are essential 

This Matariki, gather the tamariki for a magical storytelling experience under the stars! Meet Whetū Wāhine, a celestial kaitiaki here to share the stories of Matariki through waiata, movement, and a heartwarming tale about the wishing star, Hiwa-i-te-rangi.

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Live Storytelling with Anatonio

Sat 21 - Sun 22 Jun, 10.30am, 11.30am & 12.30pm | Free, bookings are essential 

Join Anatonio Te Maioha (Ngāpuhi, Tainui) for a powerful storytelling experience that brings the stars of Matariki to life through rich kōrero and connection. 

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Dates and Times
  • Fri 20 Jun 10am - 2pm
  • Sat 21 Jun 10am - 2pm
  • Sun 22 Jun 10am - 2pm