Wānaka Matariki 2026 | Matariki Herenga Waka
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Nau mai, haere mai. Welcome to the gathering.
As Matariki rises in the midwinter sky, we come together on the shores of Lake Wānaka to remember those we have lost, give thanks for what we have, and look with hope to the year ahead.
This year's national theme is Matariki Herenga Waka — the gathering of many canoes. When we move together, we go so much further.
For the 17th year, Kāhu Youth Trust invites the whole community to share in this celebration. Kapa haka from groups of every age, a hāngī prepared by our rangatahi, pūrākau, weaving workshops, fire dancers, and as the sun sets over the mountains, fire baskets and a community waiata under the winter sky.
This event is made possible by the mahi of our young people — 60+ rangatahi who give their time to prepare the kai, run the activities and welcome you to this space. They are the heartbeat of Wānaka Matariki.
Free entry. Bring your whānau, your neighbours, your visitors. The lakefront is ours to share.
Ngā mihi o Matariki ki a koutou katoa.
📸credit to: the wonderful Deanna Gerlach
As Matariki rises in the midwinter sky, we come together on the shores of Lake Wānaka to remember those we have lost, give thanks for what we have, and look with hope to the year ahead.
This year's national theme is Matariki Herenga Waka — the gathering of many canoes. When we move together, we go so much further.
For the 17th year, Kāhu Youth Trust invites the whole community to share in this celebration. Kapa haka from groups of every age, a hāngī prepared by our rangatahi, pūrākau, weaving workshops, fire dancers, and as the sun sets over the mountains, fire baskets and a community waiata under the winter sky.
This event is made possible by the mahi of our young people — 60+ rangatahi who give their time to prepare the kai, run the activities and welcome you to this space. They are the heartbeat of Wānaka Matariki.
Free entry. Bring your whānau, your neighbours, your visitors. The lakefront is ours to share.
Ngā mihi o Matariki ki a koutou katoa.
📸credit to: the wonderful Deanna Gerlach
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Where is it happening?
Dinosaur Park, Ardmore St, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand, Queenstown, New Zealand
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherWānaka Matariki
