Matariki 2026: Auckland to Host – “Herenga Waka / For Everyone” Chosen as Official Theme

The New Zealand Government has confirmed that Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei will host next year’s national Matariki celebrations in Tāmaki Makaurau – under the theme Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone. The announcement, made today by the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, signals a renewed invitation for all New Zealanders to unite around the Māori New Year.

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei has long fostered Matariki events across Auckland  with recent celebrations reportedly drawing around 5,000 people, making them some of the largest in the country. The iwi’s selection as national host reflects their history of manaaki (hospitality), community engagement, and commitment to cultural celebration.

According to the government’s release, having Auckland host the official national Matariki event will spotlight the city’s identity while showcasing the depth and vibrancy of Māori culture to a wider audience.

Matariki Herenga Waka – literally “tying together in the waka (canoe)” – symbolises unity, shared journey, and community. The “For Everyone” addition underscores the inclusive spirit: Matariki is not just a Māori event, but a time for all New Zealanders to pause, reflect, remember those who have passed, and look forward to a new year together.

As Minister Paul Goldsmith said, the theme “reflects the values of reflection, celebration and preparation” that have long defined Matariki, offering an opportunity for whānau and communities across Aotearoa to come together – whether in Auckland or elsewhere.

Although full programme details are still being finalised, stakeholders say next year’s events will likely build on past festivals: dawn ceremonies, waiata, kapa haka, storytelling, public celebrations, community gatherings, and shared kai. Matariki’s role as a time of remembrance, renewal, and unity will be at the heart of the celebrations.

In past festivals in Auckland – such as the 2025 celebrations hosted by Ngāti Tamaoho under the theme Matariki ki te Wai (Water) – events blended cultural performance, environmental awareness, storytelling and community-centred happenings across the region.

Given the new national theme, organisers say there may also be events that highlight connection across iwi, cities and backgrounds – emphasising shared identity, collective hope, and the journey ahead. Cultural Unity: By explicitly inviting “everyone,” the national festival recognises Matariki as part of Aotearoa’s identity – not just Māori identity – fostering cross-cultural understanding and shared celebration.

• Visibility for Māori Heritage: Hosting in Auckland gives Māori culture a high-visibility platform in a major city, offering opportunities for urban communities, young people, tamariki and whānau to reconnect with te ao Māori.

• National Healing and Renewal: As Matariki signals the Māori New Year, the festival becomes a national moment of reflection: remembering the past, honouring ancestors, and setting intentions for the future.

• Unity Across Aotearoa: The “Herenga Waka” metaphor reinforces the idea that different people, iwi and communities across New Zealand — across seas, towns, cities — are all part of one waka (collective journey).

Looking Ahead: What to Watch

• Event details, including dates, venues, and community programmes – due to be announced in coming months.

• Opportunities for whānau, hapū, iwi, and community groups outside Auckland to participate remotely or locally when possible.

• Engagement with schools, organisations, and local councils to embed Matariki values – unity, reflection, renewal – into community life.

As Matariki 2026 draws nearer, “Herenga Waka  For Everyone” stands as a powerful call: for unity, belonging, and shared hope. Under the guidance of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Auckland will welcome the star-cluster’s return  and invite all New Zealanders to embark together on another journey under the stars.

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