What's happening this Matariki at Westfield St Lukes
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
Journey through the Stars of Matariki on our Star Walk
Step into our immersive Star Walk and journey through the stories of Matariki. Explore the meaning behind each of the nine stars, take a moment to reflect, and celebrate the Māori New Year through light, art and storytelling.
Date: 28 June – 12 July
Time: During Centre Hours
Location: Level 1, Opposite T2
Poi Making Workshop
Celebrate Matariki with a hands-on poi making workshop. Create your own poi to take home while learning about this treasured taonga and its place in Māori culture.
Date: 10 July
Time: 11am – 2pm
Location: Level 1, Centre Court
Matariki Themed Face Painting
Add a touch of Matariki magic with free face painting inspired by the stars, native flora and celestial patterns. Perfect for little ones celebrating the Māori New Year.
Date: 5 July
Time: 11am – 2pm
Location: Level 1, Opposite T2
Discover what else is happening here
