Celebrate Matariki Whānau Day at Te Puia | New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute

In Māori history, after a formal Hautapu ceremony everyone would gather to feast, play games, plan and prep for the year ahead, so we welcome you to join our Whānau Day at Rotowhio Marae.

Join us for a day of reflection, remembrance, and renewal as we come together to celebrate Matariki – the Māori New Year. With a line-up of cultural festivities, kai, and wānanga, there’s something for everyone in the whānau. The day kicks off at 9am, with activities running throughout.

Matariki Whānau Day Highlights:

Market Stalls: Browse a range of local art and crafts, kākahu, baking, or even book in for a tā moko session with a local artist
Pā Activities: Tītī tōrea (stick games), poi and haka lessons
Live Cultural Performances
Tamariki Fun Zone: Bouncy castle and face painting (kiri tuhi / moko)
NZMACI Demonstrations: Watch our talented artists at work – weaving, wood carving, stone and bone carving
Train Rides around the valley to view Pōhutu Geyser

Our street food market will be serving up delicious kai and inu – including a traditional Hāngī, cooked right here in the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley.

Adults - $5 + booking fee
Tamariki 0-16 - Free

Our Hautapu Ceremony will take place from 4.30am to 7am. A seperate ticket is required and can be booked here: https://events.humanitix.com/m...