Matariki Celebrations over the years
Over the last few years Caring Families Aotearoa has embraced Matariki and the meaning behind it to bring our caregiving community together through Matariki events, taking everyone on a journey of learning, connection and reflection.
Matariki 2026
Our amazing Regional Team held four events around the country – in Waihi, Rotorua, Dunedin and Christchurch. It was wonderful to meet new caregivers and whānau and reconnect with some familiar faces too, as we celebrated this year’s theme of Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone.
In Waihi and Christchurch, our “My Matariki Kai” events brought everyone together to prepare, cook and share a Matariki feast. There were learning opportunities about the significance of the season, fun activities for the kids and a grazing table to keep hungry puku at bay before the main meal.
In Rotorua, our Matariki Celebration and Waka Experience (in partnership with VOYCE Whakarongo Mai) was enjoyed by over 100 caregivers and tamariki. It was a day filled with connection, Matariki activities, mirimiri and a very special chance to get out on the water in a waka. We hope you enjoy this short video of what was an extremely popular event.
Caregiving whānau in Dunedin were treated to a shared lunch and some thoughtful discussions and activites centered around how to encourage Matariki practices at home.
“Thank you to Caring Families staff and volunteers for a beautiful day on Saturday! The venue was great, the weather played nice, the kai was delicious, and feedback from the kids was “best day EVER!”
“Wow, what an incredible day! Thank you so much for everything you did today. The food was fantastic, and the gifts for the children were absolutely wonderful. Your kindness and generosity are truly appreciated. We had such a great day, and it meant a lot to everyone.”
Matariki 2025
Our Lower North Regional Coordinator Ebony Phillips held a special event in Whanganui to celebrate Puanga, and the principle of Manako nui, (looking to the future). Ebony took caregivers on a learning journey, followed by a shared discussion and delicious hangi.
Thanks to Christine Frost, Upper North Regional Coordinator, and Christie McGiven, Central North Coordinator who hosted an evening of learning and connection in South Auckland, making for a fun and memorable night!
Matariki 2024
For Matariki 2024, we held events in Napier and Rotorua.
In Napier we partnered with VOYCE Whakarongo Mai to host a fun whānau day packed full of activities. There were a range of craft stations, including DIY mini gardens, make your own friendship bracelets, origami and decorating tote bags.
The kids (young and old!) enjoyed running races, mini football matches, sack races, egg and spoon races, tug of war and a three-legged race. Everyone enjoyed an amazing hāngī feast and icecream.
In Rotorua in partnership with VOYCE Whakarongo Mai, we hosted a memorable day to acknowledge and celebrate our caregiving whānau.
There were Matariki activities and workshops, tailored for both children and caregivers, mirimiri (Māori massage), and a chance to experience traditional Māori culture and history in the unique setting of a Waka. At midday everyone came together to share a delicious hāngī.