Matariki Pēwhairangi Festival returns for the fourth year with a programme packed full of unique experiences and feasts, all set in the stunning surrounds of Northland’s Bay of Islands. The festival will take place between 21 June and 14 July in venues and locations across the region.

Celebrate the Māori New Year in a uniquely Wellington way with Matariki Ahi Kā around the waterfront this month.

This year’s Matariki heads south for a new direction and ‘a time to talk and eat’ theme.

"Matariki Heri Kai - The feast of Matariki is the theme for Matariki 2024," announced Chief Advisor Mātauranga Matariki, Professor Rangi Mātāmua.

Astronomy Professor Rangi Mātāmua has been honoured with the Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori astronomy.

Matariki is just the tip of an iceberg brimming with celebration and ceremony from te ao Māori.

Te Rā Aro ki a Mātariki, the first distinctly New Zealand public holiday, has dawned across Aotearoa for the second year, with communities across the motu taking part in the celebrations.

The second celebration of Matariki as a national public holiday this Friday is being marked by increasing public support for the event, Associate Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Willow-Jean Prime said today.

Fires lit along the Hawke’s Bay coast from Cape Kidnappers to Tāngoio will be a signature Matariki celebration this month. The idea to encourage community-run fires across about 60 kilometres of beach from 5pm on July 15 has the approval of Fire and Emergency New Zealand, councils and iwi.