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Rotorua is fast becoming “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.
Matariki adviser Mataia Keepa (Ngāti Whakaue, Te Arawa) says Matariki – the Māori New Year – is a time to reflect on those who have passed, give thanks for the present, and plan for the future.
“Matariki was tied to the land, and those who occupied it initiated practices on how best to prepare. These traditions continue today, and all of these events in Rotorua help us connect through kai, kōrero, music and shared experience.”
Set against the backdrop of Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes, these events promise to bring the community together in meaningful, uplifting ways.
“It’s a beautiful time to be in our city, and it’s particularly special to be able to share our traditions with new generations, cultures, locals and manuhiri. Together, we are creating a new legacy around Matariki.”
As Matariki is more than just a single public holiday, Mataia gifted the name “Matawiki” to Rotorua, to acknowledge a full wiki (week) of connection, remembrance and celebration.
Mayor Tania Tapsell says Rotorua is fast becoming the top destination to celebrate Matariki.
“We really made a mark last year with a drone show on our Lakefront and we can’t wait to build on this for 2025. We’re so grateful for the opportunity to support and promote all the incredible people and organisations in our community contributing to these memorable and powerful Matariki events in Rotorua.
“The Matariki stars shine on everyone, and I really encourage locals and visitors to embrace the values of inclusion and coming together as a community as we celebrate in June.”
Matariki highlights in Rotorua include:
- Tohunga Tūmau Dinner – A five-course indigenous dining experience celebrating Māori cuisine, on June 13 at the Energy Events Centre.
- Aronui Arts Festival Drone Show – A captivating Matariki storytelling experience featuring drones and light displays on June 19-20 at the Rotorua Lakefront.
- Rotorua Night Market – An expanded market with kai, crafts and stalls from past Aronui Māori Market vendors, alongside regular favourites, coinciding with the Drone Show on June 19-20 at the Rotorua Lakefront.
- Ngāti Whakaue Hautapu – Iwi-led, traditional Matariki New Year ceremony held on the morning of June 20 at Whakatāhuna Ngaru, a specific land section of what is widely known as the Rotorua Lakefront.
- Matariki Hautapu Ceremony – A sacred dawn ceremony of remembrance, gratitude, and renewal, held on June 20 at Te Puia.
- Whānau Fun Day at Te Puia – An interactive celebration for the whole family with activities and entertainment on June 20 at Te Puia.
- Te Mātahi o te Tau featuring 1814 – Celebrate the Māori New Year with live music from 1814, supported by Jordyn with a Why and R67, on June 21 at the Sir Howard Morrison Centre.
- Matariki Glow Show – A free, bilingual theatre performance for tamariki, on June 22 at the Sir Howard Morrison Centre.
- Te Puia Matariki Buffet Dinners – Enjoy seasonal dishes inspired by the stars of Matariki, Tupuānuku, Tupuārangi, Waitī and Waitā, every Thursday and Friday throughout June at Te Puia.
