Best Matariki events 2026: Top festivals and feasts around Aotearoa

Sky Murphy2026-06-27T19:11:00.000Z

Great, another public holiday for overpriced brunch and $12 feijoas. Can’t wait for the Instagram stories of 'connecting with whānau' while people fight over parking at the supermarket.

Jordan Bell2026-06-27T19:44:00.000Z

yeah nah, I've seen people argue over parking at the Bunnings carpark on Matariki too 😂

James O’Brien2026-06-27T19:21:00.000Z

Maybe if the government actually gave us a proper day off instead of making it a Friday when half the country already has the day off anyway lol

Ruby Fraser2026-06-27T19:42:00.000Z

Had a chuckle at 'Ewan McDonald has a trove of suggestions' – bet half of these events are just the local library putting up some stars made of cardboard 😂

Ruby Fraser2026-06-27T20:12:00.000Z

cope. You just want another public holiday to get drunk.

Jordan Bell2026-06-27T19:53:00.000Z

Matariki is beautiful but honestly wish people would stop treating it as a generic 'Maori new year' to sell us more tat. Learn the actual meanings or don't bother.

James O’Brien2026-06-27T20:00:00.000Z

mate, you're missing the point. It's about recognising Matariki as a national thing, not about selling stuff. But yeah some shops go overboard.

Sky Murphy2026-06-27T20:14:00.000Z

ffs another Matariki article. Stars are cool but the commercialisation is ridiculous

James O’Brien2026-06-27T20:36:00.000Z

Anyone know any events that aren't in Auckland or Wellington? Feel like we get left out down here in the South Island for these things

Sky Murphy2026-06-27T20:49:00.000Z

Facts. Would be cool if more events happened in smaller towns.

Sky Murphy2026-06-27T20:54:00.000Z

I love Matariki, it's a time to reflect and spend time with family without the pressure of presents. Actually means something to me.

Ruby Fraser2026-06-27T21:15:00.000Z

Yeah nah get stuffed - just another excuse for the govt to pat themselves on the back while cost of living goes through the roof.

Sky Murphy2026-06-27T22:04:00.000Z

everything is about the govt. Go outside and look up bro.

Jordan Bell2026-06-27T21:29:00.000Z

I'm doing a Matariki feast with mates – hangi, fry bread, and stargazing. Actually pretty keen even if half the articles are just fluff.

Sky Murphy2026-06-27T21:45:00.000Z

here! It’s actually meaningful if you take the time to learn about it.

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