Council and a number of Kawerau community groups and organisations are collaborating to provide events for our community to recognise Matariki.

Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars treasured in Aotearoa. It is a time when whānau remember those who have passed on; celebrate the present and plan for the future.

For many Māori, it celebrates the start of a New Year. 

cultures throughout the world also celebrate and recognise Matariki.

We look forward to sharing this journey with you as we recognise Matariki.

2025 Matariki Celebrations

ACRYLIC JEWELLERY MAKING WORKSHOP
Sunday 15 June | 10am-12.30pm | 2pm-4.30pm | Rangi Delamere Centre
Matariki is a wonderful time to connect, create and honour through hands-on design and storytelling. There are two workshops to make and personalise jewellery to keep. REGISTRATIONS HAVE CLOSED.

MEMORIAL TRIBUTE VIDEO
From Monday 16 to Friday 20 June | via Council’s social media
This special memorial slideshow will be made available during the week leading up to Matariki, so we can all remember our loved ones together.

COMMUNITY AWARDS 
Wednesday 18 June | 1pm-3pm | Concert Chambers
Celebrating the wonderful work that volunteers and organisations do to ensure Kawerau is a great community to be part of.

HAUTAPU CEREMONY
Thursday 19 June | 5am onwards | Te Matatu, 119 Onslow Street
Experience the Matariki Hautapu Ceremony, followed by Hakari | Breakfast

CREATIVE EXHIBITION
From Thursday 19 June – Friday 27 June | Top Floor at KEA Building
Exhibiting creative art pieces from members of the Community, themed ‘A Year in Reflection’ 

ELEVATE KAWERAU CONCERT 
Saturday 12 July | 3pm-8pm | Recreation Centre
Concluding Matariki by showcasing local talent and bringing our community together to do something positive.

For more information, please contact Kawerau District Council on 07 306 9009