Hākari Below the Stars

Join Space Place in celebrating the wonders of Matariki with a range of whānau-friendly activities and watch the waterfront fireworks from the heights of Kelburn.

Discover Māori starlore in Matariki Dawn – a planetarium show about three Māori legends: The Creation, Rona and Marama and the story of Te Waka o Tama-rereti.

Discover more of our southern skies with telescope viewings (weather permitting). Tamariki will learn more about the Matariki star cluster through activity booklets, all while looking fabulous with professional facepainting.

The rising of the star cluster has inspired artists for centuries. Enjoy kapa haka performances by Ngā Uri o Whiti Te Rā Mai Le Moana Trust and poetry readings from Stacey Teague, Kahu Kutia as well as Jamie Berry’s audio visual installation in the Thomas King Observatory.

Opt-in for the Matariki meal to enjoy a delicious hāngī pie with your choice of fries or salad by our friends from Cable Top Eatery. Vegetarian and vegan options available.

We can’t wait to celebrate the Māori new year with you at our one night only of hākari!