What's happening this Matariki at Westfield Riccarton

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.

Click here for the Matariki long weekend opening hours.

Discover what’s on for Matariki

Matariki Display
Monday 29 June - Wednesday 15 July | Level 2, outside Decjuba

Discover the story of Matariki at our display. Take home a guide to help you find the Matariki star cluster.

Matariki Kids Crafts
Monday 6 July - Thursday 9 July | 11am - 2pm | Level 2, outside Decjuba

Kids can design their own windchimes & lanterns for Matariki.

Matariki Face Painting
Thursday 9 July & Friday 10 July | 11am - 2pm | Level 2, outside Decjuba

Discover what else is happening here.