“The theme for next year’s Matariki celebration is Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone, a powerful expression of unity, inclusion, and shared heritage” says Chief Executive for Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae.

“I’m also excited to announce Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei will host the nationally broadcast Matariki hautapu on 10 July 2026” Leauanae continues.

“Auckland is a vibrant and diverse city often referred to as the ‘city of sails’. Matariki herenga waka symbolises that Tāmaki is a place of arrival, gathering, and belonging. It reflects the idea that Matariki connects us all, regardless of background, culture, or origin.”

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust Chair Marama Royal says they are excited to host this kaupapa on their whenua at Takaparawhau.

“Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei has a long tradition of welcoming our city to Takaparawhau to acknowledge Matariki, and we are proud to continue that kaupapa. As tangata whenua of central Tāmaki, this is an important part of our role. It is our privilege to extend our manaaki once again, and, through our partnership with Manatū Taonga, to share this significant ceremony with whānau right across the motu” Royal continues.

“Honouring the whakataukī Tāmaki herenga waka, meaning ‘Tāmaki, the gathering place of many canoes’, Matariki herenga waka honours the deep connection between the Tāmaki region, the Matariki star cluster, and the many people who call New Zealand home.”

A celebration of inclusion and shared knowledge

Chief Advisor Mātauranga Matariki, Professor Rangi Mātāmua says “next year’s theme encourages everyone to come together to celebrate Matariki, embracing the values of reflection, celebration, and preparation. These values remain constant each year, even as the theme evolves.”

“Matariki is a time to share stories, traditions, and mātauranga (knowledge), not just within Aotearoa but across the Pacific. The first celebration of Matari’i as a national holiday in French Polynesia Tahiti Nui recently is a testament to its wider significance.”

“Mātauranga is not held by one person or place – it is shared across generations and communities, in Tāmaki, across the motu and Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa. Everyone is encouraged to learn, share, and participate in the celebration of the Māori New Year.”

Professor Rangi Mātāmua says “as we prepare for the 2026 national celebration in Auckland, Matariki herenga waka reminds us that this is a time for all people to gather, reflect, and look forward together.”