Rotorua is set to shine bright again this Matariki.
Rotorua is THE destination to acknowledge and celebrate Matariki, with jam-packed schedule of events, music, activities and a sacred dawn ceremony – all of which enable locals and manuhiri alike to share the tikanga and magic that Matariki brings.
This year’s theme, Matariki mā Puanga, is all about inclusion, embracing diversity, and celebrating together.
As Matariki is more than just a single public holiday, Keepa gifted the name “Matawiki” to Rotorua, to acknowledge a full wiki (week) of connection, remembrance and celebration. Check out the range of amazing events created to connect you and your whānau to this special time of year while also learning and having fun.
1. ARONUI Drone Light Show
Immerse yourself in the magic of the ARONUI Indigenous Arts Festival Drone Shows. For the second year running, we have the opportunity to witness a breathtaking Matariki storytelling experience in the night sky above Lake Rotorua. The FREE drone and light shows, presented on two nights, bring mātauranga Māori to life through cutting-edge technology and a mesmerising blend of light, sound, and narration by Ngāti Whakaue/Te Arawa artists. Don’t miss this unforgettable fusion of art, culture and technology under the stars.
When: 19 & 20 June, 8pm
Where: Rotorua Lakefront
2. Rotorua Lakefront Night Market
The Rotorua Night Market has been one of the most popular weekly activities for the past decade and this year we’re getting double the dose with TWO night markets. For these two nights, the market will be located at the $40 million upgraded Rotorua Lakefront. With Aronui Māori Market vendors, artisan food trucks, quality locally made and sourced products, and a festival of entertainment, this special experience is the perfect entrée to the main event, the ARONUI Indigenous Arts Festival and First Lights Drone Show.
When: 19 & 20 June, 5-9pm
Where: Rotorua Lakefront
3. Te Pō Kitakita - Exhibition of Light
This spectacular outdoor light exhibition inspired by Matariki invites our community to gather under the stars for two unforgettable evenings of light-based art and creative celebration.
When: 19 & 20 June, 5-7pm
Where: The Arts Village Rotorua
4. Ngāti Whakaue Hautapu Ceremony
Join this iwi-led, traditional Matariki New Year ceremony held at dawn at Whakatāhuna Ngaru, a special area at the Rotorua Lakefront. FREE to join.
When: 20 June, 4.30am
Where: Rotorua Lakefront
5. Hautapu Ceremony at Te Puia
Te Puia, one of New Zealand’s leading cultural and geothermal experiences, invites the community to experience a Matariki Hautapu Ceremony. This traditional event takes place mid-winter, when Matariki appears on the eastern horizon in the morning. A deeply spiritual start to Matariki, rooted in tradition and cultural practice. Admission is FREE but registration is required.
When: 20 June, 4.30-7am
Where: Te Puia
Click here to book
6. Whānau Day at Te Puia
Bring the whānau for a day of interactive fun at Te Puia, with cultural performances, kids’ activities, kai, and more. A joyful celebration of the Māori New Year for all ages. FREE entry for tamariki. Click here to book
When: 20 June, 9am to 3pm
Where: Te Puia
7. Hell's Gate Twilight Spa
Watch the stars dance across the sky as the sun goes down over New Zealand's premier geothermal reserve and spa facility. Relax and unwind by night with the sounds of falling water and native birds, all while rejuvenating your body, inside and out, in the world-famous muds and waters that Hell's Gate has become so well known for. Includes bathing in the world-famous mud baths, soaking in the sulphur spas and the cool plunge pool. Bookings recommended.
When: 20 June - 30 August
Where: Hell's Gate
8. Te Mātahi o te Tau with 1814
Celebrate Matariki with a powerful night of music and culture, presented by ARONUI Indigenous Arts Festival. Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue and Nikau Grace open with He aha te aha, a tribute to Tā Bom Gillies and the 28th Māori Battalion, followed by 1814, Jordyn with a Why, and R67. Tickets required.
When: 21 June, 7pm
Where: Sir Howard Morrison Centre
9. Matariki Glow Show
Matariki stories come to life with giant puppets, te reo Māori and English storytelling, and themes of whanaungatanga. A magical, educational experience for tamariki and whānau. Admission is FREE but registration is required.
When: 212June, 10am
Where: Sir Howard Morrison Centre
More Matariki events can be found here.
