Ōpōtiki Set to Shine as Matariki Festival Returns

The Ōpōtiki Matariki Festival is back this month, bringing the community together through culture, entertainment, learning and connection.

Running from Friday, July 3, to Saturday, July 18, the annual festival features a diverse programme of activities, from wānanga and hāngī-inspired gatherings to discos, movies, golf, conservation experiences and a brand-new Matariki Ball.

Ōpōtiki District Council Experience & Engagement Coordinator, Iranui Huriwai, said this year's festival has “something for everyone.”

At its heart, Huriwai said the festival is about strengthening community connections.

"This year's national theme for Matariki is Herenga Waka, so it's all about bringing everyone together. It's for everyone, no matter what walk of life you come from, your age or your background."

Now in its seventh year, the festival has become a much-anticipated fixture on the district's calendar.

"We've been doing the Matariki Festival in Ōpōtiki for seven years, and it's definitely become something the community looks forward to," Huriwai said.

"It's only ever grown since we started it, and a couple of years ago it won a national event award. That support and recognition really backs it as a great festival to take part in."

Several popular annual events are returning, including the night walk at Hukutaia Domain, the Matariki Ambrose Golf tournament and the annual Matariki Wānanga, which is held at a different marae each year.

This year's wānanga will take place at Kutarere Marae.

The 2025 programme also introduces several new experiences, including a conservation day at Ōpape and the inaugural Matariki Ball.

"We think the conservation day is something people will really enjoy getting involved with," Huriwai said.

"The Matariki Ball is also a great opportunity for everyone in the community to come together, have a great night out and celebrate."

Huriwai said the council's biggest hope is that people embrace the opportunity to take part.

"We just really hope everyone comes out, joins in the events, has a great time and leaves with great memories. That's the most we could hope for."

The festival will conclude with a free community finale at Whitikau Reserve on Saturday, July 18, from 3pm, coinciding with the final weekend of the school holidays.

The family-friendly event will feature live entertainment, market stalls, delicious kai, activities for all ages and the official prize-giving for the Kai Gatherer Challenge.

"We'd love to see everyone there," Huriwai said.

"We're putting together a great line-up on the stage and a little surprise for the end, so there's more to come."

Residents are encouraged to wrap up warm, bring their whānau and friends, and enjoy an evening celebrating Matariki and the spirit of community.