Puaka Matariki Festival

Celebrate the Māori New Year in Ōtepoti Dunedin

Saturday 4 July – Saturday 25 July 2026

The Puaka Matariki Festival returns this winter with a city-wide programme of events, performances, workshops, exhibitions, storytelling, stargazing, kai, and community celebrations.

The national Matariki public holiday will be observed on Friday 10 July 2026, with major events and activities taking place across the festival period.

Across Ōtepoti and the Region

Events will take place throughout Dunedin and the wider region — in marae, museums, galleries, libraries, schools, community spaces, parks, and public venues.

Whether you are continuing long-held traditions or discovering Matariki for the first time, there are many ways to take part in the festival.

Nau mai, tauti mai — everyone is welcome.

Puaka Matariki is a time for remembrance, reflection, celebration, and hope.

Bring your whānau, spend time together, learn something new, and celebrate the Māori New Year in Ōtepoti Dunedin.

Delivered in partnership with Te Rūnanga o  Ōtākou and Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki with support from Air New Zealand.