Matariki is rising next month, with the star cluster appearing in our skies from July 13 and bringing with it the Māori New Year.

The Matariki star cluster signifies Aotearoa’s own midwinter New Year, and with it a series of events around the country. Check in with your local council and iwi groups for festivals and community activities happening in your area.

Matariki events are generally family-friendly and educational. As well as music and storytelling, some events will encourage you to take part in tree planting to give back to the land mother Papatūānuku.

Matariki Festival is running in Auckland with online activities, screenings of Māori short films, performances, community activities, arts, and workshops.

In Wellington, Kia Whakanui i a Matariki will run for three weeks with performances and workshops that engage tamariki through taonga puoro (Māori musical instruments), kōrero paki (storytelling) and kanikani (dance).

Christchurch is hosting Matariki in the Zone 2020, with live music by Lisa Tui, activities for all ages, a traditional hāngi, hot drinks and a lighting display at Avebury House & Richmond Community Garden on July 19.

Whangarei’s Matariki Festival will be smaller than usual this year, but will involve zero-waste community planting days.

Tauranga will host Piki Mai Te Kaupapa O Matariki Tauranga Moana 2020 with exhibitions and workshops including how to ubild your own waka.

In the Waikato you can find a series of Matariki events including performances and delicious food at the Tino Reka te Kai Matariki Dish Challenge.