Tamaki-Nui-
A-Rua
MATARIKI WHAKANUIA KI
TĀMAKI NUI-A-RUA
Tararua Celebrate Matariki
Dannevirke 16-17 & 19 June
Mānawa mai a te putanga o Matariki.
Mānawa mai a te ariki o te rangi.
Mānawa mai a te mātahi o te tau
Hail the rise of Matariki
Hail the lord of the sky
Hail the New Year
Matariki is the Māori tradition that marks the rising of the star cluster Matariki Pleiades. Matariki signals the start of the Māori new year and is a time for commemorating the passing of loved ones, making plans for the coming year, feasting and celebrating.
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MATARIKI LIGHT SHOW
TĀMAKI NUI-A-RUA
MATARIKI LIGHTS 2026
Tuesday 16 - Wednesday 17 June
Experience for the first time in Dannevirke, the Tūrama Matariki Light Trail - a stunning outdoor celebration illuminating the Lower Domain Lake and scenic area.
From 6-8 pm, wander through breathtaking light displays and interactive installations that bring the Matariki stories to life for all ages.
Bring your whānau, rug up warm and enjoy the magic beneath the stars. Selected Kai Stalls will be available throughout the evening.
Dress warm in layered clothing with comfortable runners.
Kai, entertainment, remembrance & fireworks
Free entry. 6.00 - 9.00pm, 16-17 June
The Lake, Lower Domain Rd
Dannevirke
Dress up warm to energise the soul and warm the senses in the chill of winter to celebrate Matariki on Friday 4 August.
Come share this special time of the year with us in Tararua
MATARIKI MANAKO NUI
TĀMAKI NUI-A-RUA
ANNUAL MATARIKI FESTIVAL 2026
Friday 19 June
Dress up warm to energise the soul and warm the senses in the chill of winter to celebrate Matariki on Friday 19 June.
The Dannevirke A&P Showgrounds will come alive as a place of connection, remembrance and renewal for all.
Come share this special time of the year with us in Tāmaki-nui-a-Rua.
We have a wonderful array of kai stalls, entertainment, remembrance & fireworks
Free entry. 6.00 -8.00pm Fri 19 June
A & P Showgrounds,
Dannevirke
7.30PM MAUMAHARA - 8PM
ARTS AND CRAFTS - WHĀNAU ACTIVITIES