Mānawatia a Matariki Te tau hou Māori

Celebrating the Māori New Year

Matariki signals the Māori New Year. It is a time of renewal and cues the rising of the Matariki star cluster (the Pleiades or Eight Sisters). Matariki is the star that signifies reflection, hope, our connection to the environment, and the gathering of people.

According to the Maramataka (the Māori lunar calendar), the reappearance of Matariki brings the old lunar year to a close and marks the beginning of the new year. Hence, Matariki is associated with the Māori New Year. It is a time to gather with family and friends to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and plan for the future.

The theme for 2026 is Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone, focusing on unity, inclusivity, and the gathering of people to celebrate the Māori New Year

Learn more about the artist behind our Matariki creative in-centre, Tristan Marler (aka Manawa Tapu) here.

We are opening 9am-9pm on Matariki, Friday 10th July . Click here for the Matariki long weekend opening hours.

Discover performances here this Matariki.

Discover what’s on for Matariki

Journey through the Stars of Matariki in our Immersive Star Tunnel.

Step into a journey of reflection, storytelling and discovery this Matariki.

From 29 June – 12 July, experience the immersive Star Walk at Westfield Manukau. Wander through a starlit tunnel inspired by the nine stars of Matariki, where each whetū (star) shares its own story and deep significance within te ao Māori.

As you move through the space, you'll discover the unique meaning behind each star, offering a quiet moment to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the future. Every step invites you to pause, learn, and feel a deeper connection to the sky above and the community around you.

Guided by Hiwa-i-te-rangi, the wishing star of the Matariki cluster, this is a sacred space to set your intentions, remember those we have lost, and dream of the year ahead together.

Dates: Mon 29 June - Sun 12 July

Time: Centre opening hours

Location: Level G , near Typo

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Matariki Always-on Colouring Zone

Keep the little ones entertained at our interactive Matariki activity hub. Kids can get creative by colouring in Monty walking under the Matariki stars, or challenge themselves with a fun selection of Matariki-themed puzzles.

Dates: Monday, 29 June – Sunday, 5 July

Time: During centre hours

Location: Level G, Centre Court

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Matariki Poi Workshop

Celebrate Matariki by creating your own poi and learn about this traditional Māori taonga. Visit us in Centre Court and take home your own handcrafted poi.

Date: Sat 4 July
Time: 11am - 2pm
Location: Level G , Centre Court

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Matariki Face Painting.

Enjoy glow-in-the-dark Matariki-themed face painting as we celebrate the Māori New Year. Visit the face painting station located next to our Matariki Immersive Tunnel on the date below.

Date: Fri 10 July
Time: 11am - 2pm
Location: Level G , near Typo

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Discover what else is happening this School Holiday here>

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