Matariki 2025
Matariki is back for 2026, see the upcoming program here.
Matariki, the Māori name for the star cluster also known as Pleiades, rises every midwinter, heralding a time of remembrance, celebration and renewal. Welcome Te Mātahi o te Tau (the Māori New Year) at Sydney Observatory with a performance by kapa haka group Te Raranga Whanui, music by Capital Zee and Madz Parker, weaving with artist Angela Paikea and traditional cooking from Hāngiworks. The sacred ritual, Speaking the Stars guided by Jamaica Moana invites visitors to reflect on loved ones lost and release future intentions to the stars.
Program
Music and Performance
5pm DJ Capital Zee
5.30pm and 7.30pm Madz Parker
6pm Te Raranga Whanui
Speaking the Stars
5–8pm A ritual with Jamaica Moana, where visitors can reflect on loved ones lost and release future intentions to the stars. With visuals by Dark Sky Project.
Weaving Workshop
5.30–8pm Artist Angela Paikea leads a weaving workshop, sharing traditional Māori techniques.
Tamariki Corner
5–8pm Activities for young people featuring Matariki board games and books.
Film
5–8pm Premiere featuring Aunty Gail Mabo and Nikau Hindin sharing stories about their work.
Exhibition
5–8pm New series of photographic portraits by Shalamah Tautaiolefue.
Hāngi
6–8pm Traditional hāngi, slow-cooked in the earth by Hāngiworks.
Featuring
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