The night skies above Ōtepoti Dunedin will sparkle with new meaning this Matariki, as the city invites whānau, friends, and visitors to come together for a powerful celebration of Māori culture, reflection, and renewal. This free community event will take place from 3pm until 9pm on Saturday, 21 June at Logan Park.
The inaugural Matariki mā Puaka will feature two breath-taking drone light shows, weaving art, storytelling, and technology into the night skies. Produced in collaboration with mana whenua and cultural advisors, the event will also include kai, kapa haka, storytelling, and music set amongst mesmerising light installations.
Enterprise Dunedin Event Producer Allison Wallace says the festival reflects the city’s commitment to higher-quality, accessible events that celebrate local culture and bring communities together.
“In response to feedback and the popularity of last year’s drone show event which saw 15,000 people in attendance, we have extended the event footprint across Logan Park and have a large food truck and dining area.
“We have an earlier drone show for our younger audiences at 6pm, followed by a later show for our teens and adults at 8.30pm. We’re excited to announce our headline act as 1 Drop Nation, one of Aotearoa’s must-see acts, whose music is a unique blend of roots, rock, funk, and reggae.”
Tāwini White, of Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki says Matariki mā Puaka is a theme that encompasses regional variations of practice and understanding. The events taking place during the next month will focus on the natural environment and how we can participate in creating understanding around these resources.
"The celebration of Puaka and Matariki marks the beginning of a new year. It is a time to honour those who have passed, to celebrate the present and plan for the future. We celebrate Puaka and Matariki as they align with weather events and corresponding food resources as well as bringing whānau, hapū, iwi and the hapori together in shared acknowledgement of the season."
Paulette Tamati-Elliffe, of Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou, says "As a community, we have been celebrating both Puaka and Matariki for many years. During the national hautapu that was hosted by Ōtākou last year, a karakia for Puaka was included as well as karakia to the stars of Matariki to celebrate both star clusters. Together, they guide us into a season of reflection, celebration, and hope. It is a time of growth for our customs and our knowledge is strengthened through practice that can be shared with our community.”
Enterprise Dunedin Destination Manager Sian Sutton says the upcoming programme of events across the city as well as this signature event are a chance to deepen our connection to te ao Māori.
“Puaka Matariki is a uniquely powerful time of reflection and unity. We’re thrilled to bring this to life for our city and we’re particularly excited by the collaborative process with mana whenua to ensure the event is culturally appropriate and reflective of Matariki values.”