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More than 30 events will be held across Tauranga Moana and the Western Bay of Plenty next month as the region marks Matariki with a month-long programme of cultural celebrations, performances and community gatherings.
Matariki Te Tauranga o ngā Waka runs from June 16 to July 16, 2026, bringing together a wide range of events focused on remembrance, reflection, celebration and connection.
Regional theme
This year’s programme is guided by the theme of Ururangi, one of the nine stars of the Matariki cluster associated with winds and movement.
Te Awanui ward councillor Hēmi Rolleston says Matariki is a time to reflect on those who have passed and consider the legacy left for future generations.
“Honouring those now with Pōhutukawa who guide me still, while reminding me that every choice I make shapes the legacy I will leave for our mokopuna.
“E kore au e ngaro, he kākano i ruia mai i Rangiātea.”
Traditional Māori navigator Jack Thatcher says Ururangi offers an important message for communities gathering during Matariki.
“Ururangi is mainly about the winds – the unseen forces that move us, test us, and carry us forward.
“As we gather for Matariki this year, we remember that our tūpuna never feared the winds, but they learned to read them. And that’s the lesson for us all: to move with purpose, stay grounded in who we are, and trust the pathways laid before us.”
The regional theme complements this year’s national Matariki theme, Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone.
Programme highlights
Events will include kapa haka performances, toi Māori exhibitions, workshops, storytelling sessions, stargazing experiences and family activities.
Among the highlights is Matariki for Tamariki at Baycourt Community & Arts Centre on June 30, featuring dance, music and storytelling inspired by the nine stars of Matariki.
The matARiki Sculpture Trail returns from June 17 to July 18, transforming public spaces in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui through an augmented reality exhibition featuring digital artworks by Māori artists.
Families will also be able to take part in Matariki Whānau Day at Te Ao Mārama – Tauranga Library on Saturday, July 4, with activities including weaving, tukutuku creation, clay taonga workshops and poi lessons.
Community remembrance
One of the festival’s key events will be Matariki Maumaharatanga at Hopukiore/Mount Drury on Friday, July 10.
The dawn ceremony provides an opportunity for the Tauranga Moana community to remember loved ones who have passed and welcome the rising of Matariki together.
Organisers say this year’s ceremony will hold particular significance following the landslides that affected Mauao and Welcome Bay earlier this year.
Light and celebration
The programme also includes Matariki Light Up the Waterways: Te Ara ō Wairākei 2026 in Pāpāmoa on July 10, where illuminated waterways will bring Matariki stories and traditions to life.
A kapa haka performance by University of Waikato students and a public lecture on Matariki and Hautapu will also feature in the programme.
Growing festival
Established to create opportunities for communities to engage with te ao Māori and celebrate the Māori New Year, Matariki Te Tauranga o ngā Waka continues to grow as one of the Bay of Plenty’s largest cultural festivals.
The festival is presented by Te Tuhi Māreikura Trust and Te Puna i Rangiriri Trust.
