Youth Calendar

A vibrant, whānau-friendly event that celebrates the Māori New Year. Proudly presented by Kāhu Youth Trust

Matariki, marked by the rising of the Te Kāhui o Matariki star cluster, is a time for remembering the past, celebrating the present, and setting intentions for the future. This year’s event brings together local whānau, tamariki, and rangatahi for an afternoon of free activities, cultural performances, hangi, and community connection.

Event Highlights:

• Delicious hangi – served from 5pm. Get in early as last year we sold out! Pre-sales start at 2pm.
• 10 kapa haka groups performing on the Community Stage throughout the event.
• Live storytelling of local Māori legends by kaumātua Darren Rewi.
• MCs Paul Tamatik and Ryan Enoka, guiding the audience through the meaning of Matariki.
• Kāhu Youth Pop-Up Youth Centre for rangatahi to relax at and soak up the Matariki Atmosphere.
• Tamariki Interactive Marquee with Matariki themed crafts and stories.
• Weaving Workshop – join MAC and Te Kakano to weave Harakeke plant guards.
• Bonfires along the lakefront, perfect for warming up. 
• Giant bubble show, a favourite for tamariki!
• Community Waiata – together we will sing Ko Te Whirika, at 5:30pm along the lakefront and we invite all to come and sing with us.

Location

Dinosaur Park, Lake Wānaka Waterfront