Matariki in Canterbury
A few ways to celebrate Matariki with your friends and whānau.
8-11 July, Tātai Whetū, Tātai Tangata
Head along to the heart of Ōtautahi to celebrate the rise of Puanga and Matariki through light, art, culture and whānau. Enjoy this free, cultural festival featuring an array of artistic, cultural and lighting displays, as well as special events and activities, produced by Christchurch City Council.
The festivities run from Wednesday 8 July to Saturday 11 July, every evening from 5pm to 9pm. The event hub is at Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū forecourt, as well as a few works being positioned along Worcester Boulevard. Tātai Whetū, Tātai Tangata will feature a combo of all-new works and crowd-pleasers from the previous event, Tīrama Mai.
Discover a vibrant programme of workshops, performances, science, kōrero and hand-on whānau friendly activities. Enjoy live music sets and poetry, weaving workshops, night-sky talks, films and animations that reflect on stars, storytelling and navigation. christchurchartgallery.org.nz
10 July, The Tannery Matariki Food Market
The annual Matariki Food Market is back at The Tannery in Woolston from 5pm to 8pm. An evening of connection, kai, and culture, popular local food trucks will bring their delicious flavours to the food truck village. The Atrium will transform into a warm communal banquet space with live music and a bar. Gather with friends and whānau to enjoy great food, community, and the unique atmosphere of The Tannery, 3 Garlands Road, Woolston.
10-11 July, Matariki Mākete at The Arts Centre
Held at The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora market square, this magical evening market under the stars takes place over two weekend nights.
A vibrant celebration of toi (art), kai, and whanaungatanga (community connection), head along to explore more than 60 local artisans, enjoy live performances, and treat yourself to the delicious offerings from the food trucks. Immerse yourself in the beauty of culture, support small businesses, and experience the magic of Matariki. artscentre.org.nz
11 July, Matariki in the Zone
A free winter-warming event on Saturday 11 July from 2.30pm to 6.30pm at the Riverlution EcoHub in Richmond.
Matariki and aspects of Te Ao Māori will be marked with food, music, activities, features include a week-long Matariki Star Trail lighting display leading up to the main event, cultural performances, and a hāngī lifted at 5pm.
Enjoy a family-friendly afternoon of cultural activities, followed by a hāngī cooked by the awesome team from Tuahiwi Marae. Kai is available all afternoon, as well as hot chocolate and alcohol-free mulled wine. Try the delicious fried bread, boil-up, and veggie soup – all for koha so bring your gold coins. Location: Riverlution EcoHub, 46a Vogel Street, Richmond. Part of Matariki Events 2026, see more at eventfinda.co.nz.
