Matariki Festival 2012
On 21 June the Matariki star cluster rises into our skies signalling the beginning of a month of celebration and entertainment, which bring a modern take to a centuries old Maori tradition.
Auckland comes alive with a series of concerts, family events and traditional celebrations. From art exhibits, kapa haka, contemporary dance and kite flying there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Browse our fantastic programme, find something that interests you and join us in celebrating New Zealand's very own New Year.
Matariki Festival 2012
Matariki Dawn Karakia
21 Jun 2012
Tamaki Makaurau's iconic Maungakiekie (One Tree Hill) is the place to be on the morning of 21 June, as we come together to witness the first dawn of Matariki 2012.
Join us on the summit of this historic maunga as we herald the arrival of the Matariki constellation with a powerful and moving karakia.
This event is open to all so come along and experience this enchanting start to Aotearoa's ve...
Matariki Dawn Planetarium Show
27 Jun 2012
Matariki Dawn looks at the cultural and astronomical significance of this spectacular star cluster to Maori. See Matariki close up in the planetarium and find out why it appears in June each year, heralding the start of Maori New Year.
Part of Matariki Festival 2012.
Matariki-Oke
22 Jun 2012 - 23 Jun 2012
Get down to the PumpHouse Theatre for a memorable theatre encounter.
Acclaimed actor/director Regan Taylor (Ngati Kahungunu ki Tamakinui-a-Rua) has gathered a band of entertainers to perform his original new work Matariki-Oke.
Honouring the Maori show-bands and the traditions of Matariki, this will be a highly anticipated performance showpiece.
Stars of Matariki, hosted by Mayor Len Brown
23 Jun 2012
Join us for a Maori cultural feast of live music and a sumptuous Maori-themed buffet dinner, hosted by Mayor Len Brown.
Featuring the vocal talents of Annie Crummer, Betty-Anne Monga, Maisey Rika and Ria Hall who will perform a specially arranged collaborative concert that showcases this all female- star-studded line-up.
Stars of Matariki, promises to be a night of glamour and glitz with so...
Te Po o Matariki
17 Jul 2012 - 21 Jul 2012
Te Po o Matariki, supported by Creative New Zealand, Te Po o Matariki presents Seven Sisters, a short visual explosive projection. Artist Allen Vili 'Onesian' work is suggestive of urban influences from parallel cultures such as the hip hop/urban culture.