Matariki is a celebration for everyone This year marks the fifth observance of Matariki as a public holiday, highlighting the growing place of the Māori New Year within New Zealand’s national calendar and the many ways it is celebrated across the country 2 July, 2026
Long-awaited National Erebus Memorial begins construction Construction has started on the National Erebus Memorial, marking a significant step forward in honouring the 257 people who lost their lives in the Mt Erebus disaster on 28 November 1979 24 June, 2026
Anzac Day 2026: Recognising all who have served, past and present New Zealanders will gather across the country on 25 April to mark Anzac Day 2026, coming together in remembrance of all those who have served the nation in times of war, conflict, and peace support operations. 14 April, 2026
Applications open to lead the board of the Sport Integrity Commission The Minister for Sport and Recreation is calling for expressions of interest for the role of Chair of the Sport Integrity Commission Te Kahu Raunui Board 31 March, 2026
New Zealand creatives embrace digital tools New research shows that seven out of 10 creators use digital tools for creative or cultural practices. 18 March, 2026
National Erebus Memorial moves forward with release of concept design Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage has today released the concept design for the National Erebus Memorial, marking an important milestone in the project’s development. 12 March, 2026
2026 Broadcast of the Adhan – honouring those killed in the 15 March 2019 terror attacks 2026 marks seven years since the Christchurch terror attacks. We are inviting interested media organisations to play a recording of the adhan (call to prayer) on Sunday 15 March 12 March, 2026
Kiwi artists to take the stage at global music festival with cultural diplomacy support Strengthening New Zealand’s global cultural presence is a key part of the government’s Cultural Diplomacy International Programme (CDIP), which has provided $57,000 to enable New Zealand to be a lead country partner at The Great Escape music festival’s 20th anniversary, held in Brighton, England 10 March, 2026
Funding round opens to put creative exports at the heart of New Zealand’s cultural diplomacy New Zealand is strengthening its global cultural presence with a strategy reset for the Cultural Diplomacy International Programme 17 February, 2026
Restoring Coates Memorial Church – project update The restoration of Coates Memorial Church is now in its fifth month all major exterior works have been completed on schedule. Access to the interior of the church remains restricted while the final stages of interior work are completed. 17 February, 2026
New approach for Carillon at National War Memorial reflects Anzac connection The iconic Carillon bells have not sounded out across Pukeahu National War Memorial Park since 2020, due to earthquake strengthening to the carillon tower. Manatū Taonga has revealed a new approach to ensure visitors hear the instrument played again soon. 11 February, 2026