Matariki at Britomart

Tūhono

A vibrant Matariki art trail by Arama Tamariki-Enua (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Cook Islands) that weaves through Auckland’s downtown waterfront, symbolically forming a waka that connects culturally significant sites from Te Komititanga to Te Tōangaroa. Meaning “to tie together,” Tūhono blends traditional motifs with contemporary light and sound, featuring vivid panels, projections, and sculptures that honor the oceanic journeys of tangata whenua and tangata moana. Anchored in the ancestral strength of Takaparawhau, the trail opens with a karakia and dance performance on June 19, followed by a full light trail launch and Matariki Market on June 21—inviting all to walk, reflect, and celebrate the past, present, and future under the stars.

Tāwhiri’s Ring

Presented by The New Zealand Dance Company, Tāwhiri’s Ring is a high-octane Matariki dance battle by rising choreographic force ‘Isope ‘Akau‘ola. Set in Britomart’s open air, this electrifying performance reimagines the legendary showdown between Tāwhirimātea and his siblings as a fierce, full-throttle turf war where krump collides with haka and every move pulses with ancestral power. With The New Zealand Dance Company and Unitec Dance throwing down, it’s part WWE spectacle, part cultural tribute, and all raw energy—where shifting alliances, flying footwork, and the spirit of whakapapa light up the night in a streetwise celebration of Matariki. Catch this performance at 12.30pm on Thursday 19 June 2025, at Takutai Square.

A Murmuration 

Inspired by the graceful flight of starlings, A Murmuration by The New Zealand Dance Company is a poetic dance work that channels the quiet strength of unity and the natural rhythms of the world. Choreographed by Bianca Hyslop (Te Arawa, Ngāti Whakaue, Tūhourangi-Wāhiao, Pākehā), this performance draws on the essence of Tupu-ā-rangi—the Matariki whetū connected to birdsong and forest life—through sweeping, instinctive choreography that flows like breath. Dancers move in fluid, ever-shifting formations, evoking the beauty of interconnection and the unseen forces that bind us. Catch this uplifting tribute to nature and collective spirit at 6pm, Thursday 19 June 2025 at Takutai Square.

Taonga Pūoro 

Experience the haunting beauty of taonga pūoro in a special early evening performance by Rāhana Tito-Taylor (Ngāpuhi-nui-tonu, Ngāti Whātua ki Kaipara, Waikato Tainui) at Takutai Square. Across two intimate half-hour sessions— 5.45pm – 6.15pm on Friday 27 June and Friday 4 July — Rāhana will bring the ancient sounds of traditional Māori instruments to life, offering a meditative and deeply moving tribute to whakapapa, whenua, and wairua.

Spoken word poets from Rehekōrero

Join the acclaimed spoken word collective Rehekōrero for a powerful evening of poetry in Takutai Square, where Milan Moala, Billy McCarthy, Piremina Ngapera, and Koromiko Jacob-Williams will share original works reflecting on Matariki and the pressing issues shaping their world. Known for their raw honesty and lyrical fire, these poets bring voice to the spirit of the season in a performance that promises to be thought-provoking, moving, and unforgettable. Catch them from 6.30pm – 7pm on Friday 27 June.

Dance performance by Ehetere Enigma and Hayley Walters-Tekahika

Two of Auckland's leading dancers bring a composition inspired by Matariki to Takutai Square. Catch this from 6.15pm - 6.45pm, Friday 4 July at Takutai Square

Te Korakora ki Takutai

Wrap up the Matariki Festival with an electrifying evening of music, kai, and celebration at Takutai Square! From 4.45pm to 9.30pm on Thursday 10 July, enjoy a dynamic lineup of Aotearoa’s top talent—featuring the soulful sounds of Kuini Sheba, the lyrical fire of Melodownz, the vibrant energy of Rubi Du, and more. With performances spanning waiata, haka, reggae, hip-hop, and electronica, plus delicious food stalls and festival vibes, this high-energy concert is the perfect finale to honour the season of Matariki.