Matariki on the Waterfront 2018

Overview

Every year between the months of June and July, Aucklanders come together to celebrate Matariki and take the time to recognise the rich culture and traditions that we have in New Zealand. The rising of Matariki marks the start of the Māori New Year and its new beginnings.

More than 100 region-wide events will be on offer this month. Across the final weekend of July waterfront community space Silo Park will be transformed into a dazzling space with light installations found between all six silos. Hearty and delicious hot kai will be served as part of Māori-themed food gathering Puna Kai and courtesy of gourmet hangi specialist Rewi Spraggon. The Silo Park Bar will be back and serving up its world famous mulled wine; Coco Solid and Laughton Kora will take over the Silo 6 stage on Friday and Saturday respectively; there will be art installations from Natasha Keating and Bethany Matai-Edmunds; and Kahurangiariki Smith Art's immersive video game MāoriGrl. And if that wasn't enough, there will be marshmallow toasting stations available, with all proceeds going to Auckland City Mission.

On the Friday night The Astronomical Society will be running stargazing workshops and Saturday will coincide with the start of the illuminated InMotion parade with Touch Compass. The event is free and suitable for all ages.