Matariki 2025

Published: 28-May-2025

Celebrate and learn about Matariki | Māori New Year with Waimakariri Libraries.

Matariki Maori New Year

Make a Māori kite - manu tukutuku workshop

Come along and create your very own manu tukutuku (traditional Māori kite) in celebration of Matariki and the star Ururangi, the guardian of the winds. This hands-on, whānau-friendly workshop is all about fun, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re a kite-making pro or trying it for the first time, we’ll guide you step-by-step to craft a manu tukutuku that’s ready to soar. Drop-in, no booking required

Kaiapoi Library - Tuesday 17 June, 3.30-4.30pm
Rangiora Library - Wednesday 18 June, 3.30-4.30pm
Oxford Library -  Thursday 19 June, 3.30-4.30pm

Matariki Preschool sessions 
Celebrate and learn about the Māori New Year |Matariki through our themed preschool sessions. Drop-in, no booking required.

Oxford Library– Toddlertimes - Tuesday 17 June, 10:30am
Rangiora Library - Storytimes -Tuesday 17 June, 10am
Kaiapoi Library –  Toddlertimes - Wednesday 18 June, 10:30am
Rangiora Library - Storytimes - Thursday 19 June, 10am

Matariki poster competition

Celebrate Matariki by creating a poster that shows what Matariki means to you! It could feature your favourite whetū/star, the night sky, or even a portrait of a loved one.  Winners will recieve a metarahi/ awesome prize! Bring finished entires to any Waimakariri Library by 5pm Monday 23 June. All entries will be displayed

Age categories: Primary & Secondary

Starry Nights with Oxford Observatory 

Come along and listen to knowledgeable experts from Oxford Observatory talk about the night sky! They will give a laser star tour and tell you fascinating facts about the moon. See pictures of the night sky created from smart telescopes that day!

Rangiora Library - Tuesday June 17th, 6pm - 8pm