Major Events

Ōpōtiki Matariki Festival

Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate Matariki, te tau hou Māori.

Matariki Herenga Waka - For everyone

This year’s theme of Matariki herenga waka is all about inclusion and encouraging all people to celebrate Matariki together.

Ōpōtiki Matariki Festival, an annual event that lights up the heart of our community. Each year, as the Matariki star cluster rises, signaling the Māori New Year, our festival returns to honor this special time of reflection, renewal, and celebration.

Matariki is a time for remembrance, celebrating the present and looking to the future.

Matariki Hunga Nui

Remembrance

Honouring those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki.

Matariki Ahunga Nui

Celebrating the Present

Gathering together to give thanks for what we have.

Matariki Manako Nui

Looking to the Future

Looking forward to the promise of a new year.

Ōpōtiki Lantern Festival 2026

Saturday 21 March 2026 | 2pm - 8pm | Princess Street Reserve

Ōpōtiki’s biggest summer concert is BACK and we’re kicking things off in a big way.

Headlining this year’s festival is none other than Coterie 🌊🔥

The Australian-based Kiwi brothers have become one of the most in-demand bands across Aotearoa and Australia, known for their infectious fusion of reggae, rock and pop — and their absolutely electric live shows. Get ready to hear the hits under the summer sky at Princess Street Reserve for one unforgettable night.

✨ Ellaphon

Semi-finalist on The Voice Australia 2025, performing with his full 5-piece band. Expect powerful vocals, polished production and a performance that commands the stage.

🔥 Ladz of the Mist
Bringing their signature sound and high-energy presence that festival crowds love.

🎧 DJ Luca
The rising DJ talent who went viral after posting daily online until earning his debut live mix on Mai FM — now bringing that energy live to Ōpōtiki.

💃Raena Smith
Our very own local talent, absolute powerhouse and the stunning voice that lit up our Gourmet Canvas event earlier this summer

🌟 What to Expect

This relaxed, open-air concert experience includes:

🎶 Full professional sound and lighting production
🌮 A diverse range of food vendors — from festival favourites to global flavours — travelling from across the Eastern Bay and beyond
🛍 Market stalls showcasing local creatives and selected regional traders
🎪 A dedicated Kids Zone packed with family-friendly fun
🌅 The ultimate summer festival atmosphere under the lantern lights

🎒 What to Bring

✔️ Blanket or low chairs
✔️ Sunscreen & hats
✔️ A picnic — or support our amazing kai vendors onsite

A designated shade zone will be available for gazebos and umbrellas.

🚫 Strictly no gang patches, smoking, pets/animals or alcohol permitted onsite.

Ōpōtiki Lantern Festival is the perfect way to celebrate summer with whānau and friends while enjoying the best of Aotearoa talent in one stunning coastal setting.

✨ Second lineup drop coming soon — with even more exciting announcements to follow.

We can’t wait to see you there.

Tickets - Eventfinda.com

Early Bird:

Adults: $25

Youth / Teens (13–17): $12

Family Pass (2 Adults + 2 Teens): $60

Kids (12 & under): FREE

Hardcopies available for purchase at the Ōpōtiki isite - 70 Bridge Street, Ōpōtiki

Gate:

Adults: $30

Youth / Teens (13–17): $15

Family Pass (2 Adults + 2 Teens): $70

Kids (12 & under): FREE