Nau mai, tauti mai
Celebrate Matariki in Ōtepoti Dunedin with Matariki mā Puaka, a free, family-friendly event marking this special time in the Māori calendar.
Held at Logan Park, the evening brings people together for live music, including a headline performance by Tiki Taane, alongside kai and immersive experiences. As night falls, two drone performances bring stories of Matariki and Puaka to life in the southern sky, creating a shared moment of reflection, celebration, and connection.
Matariki mā Puaka is a celebration of unity, inclusion, and diversity — a time for all to come together in the spirit of Matariki. Matariki and Puaka are stars that rise in the night sky, marking the beginning of the Māori New Year. This special occasion invites us to honour the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead with hope to a bright and prosperous future.
Event Details
When: 10 July 2026
Where: Ōtepoti, Dunedin , Logan Park
Event Schedule
3:00PM - Matariki Market and Workshops Open
5:30PM - Live Entertainment Begins
5:40PM - Te Kapa o Rukutia
6:00PM - Drone Light Show
6:10PM - Ngahau Tene
6:40PM - Tough Guy
7:10PM - Dubious Groove
7:40PM - Tiki Taane
8:45PM - Drone Light Show (repeat)
9:00PM - Event Close
Tiki Taane
Headling Ōtepoti, Dunedin's Matariki celebrations is one of the most well-known and diverse artists and producers in Aotearoa (New Zealand), Tiki Taane (Ngāti Maniapoto / MacDuff) is considered to be an influential element in the pioneering of Aotearoa's bass culture, as well as the country's most prolific genre-bending experimentalist.
Food and Drink
Come hungry. A vibrant line-up of food trucks will be serving up a range of delicious kai throughout the evening - from quick bites to hearty meals, with something for everyone. Whether you’re after something warm and comforting or keen to try something new, the food village is the perfect place to gather, refuel, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Entertainment and Workshops
There’s plenty to explore across the evening. Enjoy a mix of live performances, cultural expression, and interactive experiences for all ages. From music and kapa haka to hands-on workshops, stalls, and storytelling, there will be opportunities to learn, connect, and be part of the kaupapa. Expect a relaxed, welcoming environment — whether you’re joining in or simply taking it all in.
Plan Your Visit
To ensure your visit is as enjoyable as possible, we strongly encourage attendees to plan ahead.
Is there mobility parking available?
Mobility parking is located outside the Caledonian ground, with access off Butts Road.
Public Transport
ORC will be running free buses for the Matariki event on Friday 10 July between 2pm and 10pm for passengers travelling on routes. Just tell your bus driver if you’re heading to the event and you won’t need to use your Bee Card.
Does the event still go ahead if it’s raining?
Yes — the event is designed to go ahead in most weather conditions. If there are any changes due to severe weather, these will be communicated via the Dunedin City Council Facebook page and official event channels.
Are there EFTPOS, ATM and credit facilities?
Many vendors accept EFTPOS and credit/debit cards but make sure you bring some cash as well.
Can I bring my dog?
To ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all attendees, we kindly ask that you do not bring dogs to the event. The only exception is for guide dogs, which are welcome.
Rotary Volunteers
We are grateful to have the wonderful team from Rotary volunteering at the market. If you see someone wearing a Rotary high-visibility vest, feel free to approach them with any questions or if you need assistance. They are there to help make your experience enjoyable!
Matariki mā Puaka is delivered in partnership with
