Matariki 2025

Matariki is the perfect reason to wrap up, get out, and have fun, connecting with whānau and friends, or recharging your batteries for the months ahead. It is a special time to celebrate, reflect, remember, and plan. At Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, Matariki celebrations run from 7–22 Pipiri (June). The line-up features a mix of free and ticketed events, including live performances, visual art, kapa haka, hands-on workshops, delicious kai, and special activities for tamariki. 

PEPE 

10–22 June, Cloisters Studio 

This critically acclaimed, award-winning multimedia piece integrates dance, taonga pūoro, digital media, and craft. The central character is a solo traveller who signifies both the male and female aspects of the atua (god) of traditional musical instruments, Hineraukatauri. This mind-blowing piece, presented by Good Company Arts, is free. 

THE MĀORI SIDESTEPS 

12 June, Great Hall 

With soulful harmonies, satirical skits, and superb song parodies, The Māori Sidesteps serve up a night of crooning, comedic genius. Praised by critics and stars of hit web and TV series, these incredible performers put a hilarious spin on songs. Don’t miss their much-anticipated return, bringing with them a swag of rave reviews and hits. Tickets: $55/35 +BF. 

BOIL UP – HĀKARI FEAST 

13 June, Great Hall 

A special feast led by Josh Hunter (Ngāti Tūwharetoa) and Ngaio Cowell (Ngaati Te Ata Waiohua, Waikato, Ngāti Porou). This hākari is marae styles, with kai cooked over fire, designed to respect the kaupapa of a Boil Up: providing nourishing food from the heart using locally-sourced ingredients. Expect musical interludes as well. Tickets: $50 +BF. 

SONGS OF MY GARAGE PARTY 

14 June, Great Hall 

Henare ‘H’ Kaa presents a show inspired by the legendary garage parties that so many millennials grew up with in Aotearoa. Expect original tracks and favourite anthems, so you can sing along and let loose. With an incredible line-up of Ōtautahi’s top musicians, the arrangements will hit you right in the feels – nostalgic, raw, and deeply personal. Tickets: $30/25 +BF. 

POETRY WITH PŪORO 

15 June, Great Hall 

Get cosy by the fire and listen to star-filled poetry by Ōtautahi-based creatives, accompanied by the mesmerising sounds of taonga pūoro. Featuring Isla Huia (Te Āti Haunui a-Pāpārangi, Uenuku), Josiah Morgan (Kāi Tahu, Ngāti Maniapoto), Danielle O’Halloran (Ōtautahi-born Samoan (Malie, Mulifanua) and Pākehā (Irish/English)), and Ariana Tikao (Kāi Tahu). Tickets: $25/15 +BF. 

MATARIKI MĀKETE 

19–21 June, Market Square 

Three unforgettable evenings under the stars with over 60 local artisans touting their wares. You’ll find live performances, delicious kai, and exquisite handcrafted goods too numerous to mention. It’s all wrapped together into a memorable mid-winter experience by the team from Garden City Mākete. Great for the whole family, and best of all, entry is free. 

View the full programme and book tickets at artscentre.org.nz