Kaikōura offers a rich array of events to celebrate Matariki, blending cultural traditions with the region's natural beauty. Here's a snapshot of what's happening over Matariki weekend.
Matariki Sunrise Experience
20 June 5.30am onwards | Luxury Matariki Sunrise Experience at Ata Rangi Lodge
A once-a-year offering!
Welcome the Māori New Year in the most breathtaking way possible – from the exclusive hilltop setting of Ata Rangi Lodge.
This special Matariki morning blends warmth, wonder, and luxury as you gather to witness the rising of the Matariki star cluster above Kaikōura. Enjoy a softly guided experience with gentle storytelling and quiet reflection, followed by a beautifully curated breakfast by Beach House Café, served in the serene surrounds of the lodge.
Come together to honour the new year with beauty, peace, and intention.
LIMITED NUMBERS
Celebrating the Rise of Matariki
Saturday 21st June | 6:30am – 8:30am
Location: The Esplanade (between Ramsgate and Margate Streets)
Join us for a beautiful sunrise gathering on Saturday 21 June from 6.30am to celebrate the rise of Matariki. This special morning event brings our Kaikōura community together to honour our cultural heritage, our natural environment, and the majestic night skies above.
Important Information:
This event is weather dependent — keep an eye on updates.
Come dressed warmly and bring a blanket or chair for comfort.
Let’s gather to welcome the Māori New Year together — through stars, stories, and shared experience.
Matariki Community Stargazing at Fyffe House
21 June 2025 | 7.30pm – 9.00pm
Join us for an evening of stargazing under the stars at one of Kaikōura’s most iconic historic sites on Saturday 21st May. This community stargazing event is a chance to gather, connect, and admire the magic of our night skies.
Koha: $5 per person
All proceeds go to the Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust to support conservation, education & night sky protection initiatives
Kaikōura Night of Astrophotography (Matariki)
21 June 2025 | 7.30pm onwards | Kaikōura Lookout
Exclusive tuition evening for astrophotographers or beginners wanting to learn more, please bring your own camera, lens for astro and tripod, will be moving around a little so medium walking fitness required, own vehicle to destinations also required
contact for more info
Star Flight Zipline & Star Gazing Experience (Matariki)
20 June 2025 | 4.20pm onwards | Kaikōura EcoZip Adventures
Join us for an unforgettable experience with renowned astrophotographer Rachel Gillespie an extraordinary evening of ziplining beneath a breathtaking canopy of stars.
Your journey begins at twilight, departing from Peketā crossing the Kahutara River, you’ll leave behind all traces of artificial light. Arriving at the first zipline deck just as dusk settles, you'll
launch into the night, gliding through the air as the distant lights of Kaikōura begin to shimmer. Be sure to dress correctly, puffer jackets, beanies, warm socks and shoes are a must.
Whaleness Retreat
20–22 June 2025 | Matariki Weekend | Sudima Kaikōura
Ready to experience whales like never before?
Join us for an unforgettable weekend where rest, reflection, and reconnection are at the heart of everything.
Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and the endless blue ocean, we gather in sacred connection — with ourselves, with each other, and with the whales.
WHALENESS is wellbeing created by whales, for the planet and for the people.
Let their wisdom guide you back home to yourself.
