Matariki 2026: Te Karanga-a-Hape

A free celebration of community and connection!

Nau mai ki a Matariki me Te Karanga-a-Hape!

One of Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland)'s most beloved Matariki celebrations returns on Thursday 9 July, transforming Karangahape Road into a free, all-day journey of light, music, storytelling and connection. Te Karanga-a-Hape invites communities from across Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond to gather, reflect and celebrate the Māori New Year together.

As the stars of Matariki rise once again, Karangahape Road will transform into a vibrant pathway of light, art, music and storytelling for Te Karanga-a-Hape, an immersive and inviting experience, free for the public to enjoy.

This year we are in celebration and collaboration with musicians across Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa (Aotearoa and the Pacific) who have answered the call to move through this special time with Te Karanga-a-Hape. Each artist carves their own sound through unique expressions, we are humbled to introduce:

MĀ together with her band

LADI6

Noa Records presents: WAIWHAI

Halfqueen

With more special announcements to come, on Thursday 9th of July the whole road will come alive with activations and installations that connect us to the stars. Each whetū will have a dedicated place along the road - a map will help you discover and connect to them as you journey along the path.

“Te Karanga-a-Hape is about creating spaces where people can connect with the stars of Matariki in a way that feels nourishing for them” says Nayesha Waiti-Mulholland (Ngāti Porou), Creative Director

“All across the world, especially the Pacific, this cluster is honoured and celebrated. We hope people leave feeling inspired and engaged in their communities with Karanga-a-Hape Road.”

Matariki invites our communities across Aotearoa to Karangahape Road and encourages us to move through the new year in a way that feels tau, that feels nourishing for the stars and for our whānau, whoever they may be.

More than a festival, Te Karanga-a-Hape is an invitation, a call, to connect with te taiao, with our communities, and with ourselves. Nau mai, come be warm with your whānau while you immerse yourself in the mauri of Karangahape Road.

EVENT DETAILS

Te Karanga-a-Hape – Matariki 2026

Date: Thursday 9 July 2026

Location: Karangahape Road, Tāmaki Makaurau

Admission: Free

Time: 6.30am – 10.00pm

Mihi whakatau 5pm & Main Stage performances from 5.15pm

Highlights:
• Live performances from MĀ, LADI6, Noa Records: WAIWHAI, Halfqueen, and more to be announced
• Whetū activations across Karangahape Road
• Immersive art installations and storytelling experiences
• Family-friendly activities and experiences
• Food, hospitality and late-night offerings from local Karangahape Road businesses

Supported by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Karangahape Road Business Association, Auckland Council and Abstract Hotel

Artwork & Design by Nayesha Waiti-Mulholland and Mihitaina Riesterer

For more information https://www.karangahaperoad.com/

Contact the host of Matariki 2026: Te Karanga-a-Hape A free celebration of community and connection!

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