A Māori astronomer is enjoying guiding crowds through the Māori New Year, teaching people how to navigate the stars ahead of Matariki celebrations.

The peaks of Treble Cone will provide the scenic setting to the third, nationally broadcasted Matariki hautapu ceremony. Kāi Tahu will host over 200 people on Friday 28th June.

Tīrama Mai is back this winter to celebrate Puaka-Matariki in the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Aligned with the Matariki star cluster, Matariki Festival attracts thousands of visitors to events across Tāmaki Makaurau. This year’s festival takes place over two-weeks, starting Saturday 15 June to complement high energy and advantageous days in the Maramataka (Māori lunar calendar) and culminating in the celebration of Matariki as a public holiday on Friday 28 June.

Matariki Pēwhairangi Festival returns for the fourth year with a programme packed full of unique experiences and feasts, all set in the stunning surrounds of Northland’s Bay of Islands. The festival will take place between 21 June and 14 July in venues and locations across the region.

Celebrate the Māori New Year in a uniquely Wellington way with Matariki Ahi Kā around the waterfront this month.

This year’s Matariki heads south for a new direction and ‘a time to talk and eat’ theme.

"Matariki Heri Kai - The feast of Matariki is the theme for Matariki 2024," announced Chief Advisor Mātauranga Matariki, Professor Rangi Mātāmua.

Astronomy Professor Rangi Mātāmua has been honoured with the Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori astronomy.