NZ Holidays
The Pleiades Matariki star cluster shining in the night sky over New Zealand

Matariki

Matariki is New Zealand's newest public holiday, celebrating the Māori New Year marked by the rising of the Matariki star cluster (Pleiades). It's a time for remembrance, celebration, and looking to the future.

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Upcoming Dates

YearDateDayObserved
2026FridaySame day
2027FridaySame day
2028FridaySame day

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History & Origins

Matariki became a public holiday in 2022, making New Zealand one of the first countries in the world to have an indigenous public holiday. Matariki (the Pleiades star cluster) has been observed by Māori for centuries as a marker of the new year. The date varies each year as it's determined by the Māori lunar calendar, always falling on a Friday between 20 June and 26 July.

Traditions & Customs

  • Stargazing to observe the Matariki star cluster
  • Remembering those who have passed away
  • Sharing kai (food) with whānau (family) and community
  • Planting trees and gardens for the year ahead
  • Lighting lanterns and fires
  • Kite flying and cultural performances

Fun Facts

Matariki is the Māori name for the Pleiades star cluster

The cluster contains nine stars visible to the naked eye in Māori tradition

Each of the nine stars has its own name and significance

New Zealand was one of the first countries to create an indigenous public holiday

The date is set by the Matariki Advisory Committee

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Where to Go

The geothermal Rotorua Lake with steam rising in New Zealand

Rotorua

Bay of Plenty

A geothermal wonderland and centre of Māori culture. Experience bubbling mud pools, geysers, and authentic cultural performances.

Te PuiaWai-O-TapuRedwoods Treewalk

Stay in Rotorua

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Iconic red Wellington Cable Car with panoramic city and harbour views in New Zealand capital

Wellington

Wellington

New Zealand's compact capital city, famous for its creative culture, craft coffee scene, Te Papa museum, and dramatic harbour setting.

Te Papa MuseumWellington Cable CarCuba Street

Stay in Wellington

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Auckland city skyline featuring the iconic Sky Tower in New Zealand

Auckland

Auckland

New Zealand's largest city, known as the 'City of Sails'. A vibrant multicultural hub with stunning harbours, volcanic cones, and world-class dining.

Sky TowerWaiheke IslandRangitoto Island

Stay in Auckland

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Waikato River in autumn with the Fairfield Bridge reflected in calm water in Hamilton New Zealand

Hamilton

Waikato

A vibrant inland city on the Waikato River, gateway to the Hobbiton movie set, Waitomo Caves, and the lush Waikato farmland.

Hamilton GardensHobbitonWaitomo Caves

Stay in Hamilton

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Stunning sunrise over the coast at East Cape Gisborne New Zealand

Gisborne

Gisborne

The first city in the world to see the sunrise each day. A laid-back surf town rich in Māori heritage and surrounded by beautiful coastline.

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Stay in Gisborne

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Travel Tips

  1. 1Look for Matariki festivals and events in major cities
  2. 2Visit Rotorua for an immersive Māori cultural experience
  3. 3Join a stargazing event to see the Matariki star cluster
  4. 4Many museums and galleries have special Matariki exhibitions
  5. 5It's winter — a great time for hot pools and thermal experiences