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Mānawatia a Matariki mā Puaka – welcoming the Māori New Year

May 29, 2026

City

Mānawatia a Matariki mā Puaka – welcome to the Māori New Year. Community planting days, whānau days and after school activities make up some of the amazing events celebrating Matariki at Christchurch City Council libraries this June.

Matariki is all about resting, remembering and reflecting on the year that has been, and the year that is to come.

Free events, to be held from June 2 to July 6 across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula, include:

  • Matariki–Puaka storytimes in libraries: Join us in celebrating the Māori New Year through Matariki themed stories, song and rhymes.
  • Matariki after school activity zones: A free drop-in craft programme held at libraries across the city.
  • Matariki-Puaka dune day: A free, fun community planting experience helping to restore and care for the area around New Brighton Library.
  • He Kai Kei Aku Rika: Join in our whānau fun day with stalls to support understanding of food sovereignty and food security at Tūranga.
  • Matariki ki Rehua whānau day: Celebrate Matariki at Rehua Marae in St Albans with activities, kai and craft stalls.

Check the Matariki webpage calendar to confirm dates and times of all programming and events.