News | 23 June 2022
Share on social

Friday Five: Ways to celebrate Matariki in Wellington

Matariki is a time for remembering the past, celebrating the present, and looking to the future.

This year we are celebrating the Māori New Year in Pōneke with live events, exhibitions, fireworks and performances. Here are a few ways for you and the whānau to celebrate.

Projections on Te Papa in Wellington.

1. Immerse yourself with Ahi Kā  

Remember and honour our culture, heritage, and community, with an immersive walk-through journey through fire, imagery, and stories. 

Wrap up warm and enjoy large scale projections, soundscapes, performances, installation and of course – ahi (fire). The Ahi Kā experience runs until Sunday 26 June between 6pm-9pm, along the Wellington waterfront. 

2. Join the Haha Whetū star search 

Learn more about the meaning of Puanga and Matariki by taking part in our Haha Whetū star search! By visiting each of the painted stars in some of Te Whanganui-a-Tara's best locations, you can learn about the significance of Matariki and why the star was painted in that spot. To find out where each whetū is located, check out our webpage. 

3. Hear some live tunes 

Bring your whānau to Te Wharewaka o Pōneke on the waterfront between 1pm-6pm on Friday 24 June to take part in art activities and check out free live music, featuring local artists like Amba Holly, Louis Baker, DJ Gooda, IA and much more. 

Waithui flags on the waterfront.

4. Feel inspired around the creative capital 

You are spoilt for choice in the capital with a range of Matariki-themed exhibitions and installations to enjoy.  

  • Go for a wander around the Wellington waterfront and cast your eyes up to the WAITUHI public art series beside Whairepo Lagoon and see artist Tane Morris’ (Ngāi Tahu) stunning series depicting the nine whetū (stars) of the Matariki constellation.  
  • See Hā, Toi Pōneke Gallery’s special Matariki exhibition, featuring new works by 12 wāhine Māori artists. 
  • Stop by the Courtenay Place Light Boxes to see Whakapapa te Pō te Ao, beautiful works by artist Tanya Te Miringa Te Rorarangi Ruka. 
Fireworks in Wellington City harbour.

5. Look up to the sky 

Celebrate the Māori New Year by watching a dazzling fireworks display. Get some delicious kai from the on-site food trucks and nab your viewing spot on the waterfront to see the sky light up at 7.15pm. There are reusable cups and crockery for you to borrow to keep waste at a minimum. 

Postponement dates: Saturday 25 or Sunday 26 June – visit our Facebook page for updates. 

Don’t forget… 

Make the most of the half-price public transport when you head into the city for these events!  

Watch out each Friday for a fun list of five great activities to do, places to explore, or things to discover in our awesome city. 

Read more

Two young people with their masks they created for Ahi Ka.

26 May 2022

Stars align for Matariki ki Pōneke in capital this year

The capital will celebrate the Māori New Year with Matariki ki Pōneke – a series of events, projections and experiences for the whole whānau to enjoy....
Woman lying on a mattress.

14 June 2022

Hā: Rest as resistance

Hā, Toi Pōneke Gallery’s special Matariki exhibition in Wellington, features new works by twelve wāhine Māori artists.

Image of birds and sun over ocean from strategy document

5 May 2022

Council adopts 10-year Tūpiki Ora Māori Strategy

Wellington City Council's Pūroro Rangaranga | Social, Cultural and Economic Committee has adopted Tūpiki Ora Māori Strategy today.