The theme for this year's holiday is Matariki mā Puanga - which highlights the star Puanga or Rigel - an important star in the astronomical traditions of many iwi especially in the western half of New Zealand, in areas such as Taranaki, Whanganui and parts of Northland.
In late autumn and early winter Puanga can be seen in the eastern night sky.
To find Puanga look to the eastern horizon above the three stars of Tautoru or Orion's Belt.
The national Matariki ceremony is being hosted this year by Ngāti Rangi, at Tirorangi Marae at the base of Ruapehu.
The Māori Queen Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po will be in attendance at Tirorangi alongside other dignitaries including Ministers Paul Goldsmith and Tama Potaka.
Whakaata Māori is marking Matariki mā Puanga 2025 with a live broadcast from Tirorangi Marae in Ohakune.
Join Stacey Morrison (Te Arawa, Ngāi Tahu) and Mātai Smith (Rongowhakaata, Ngāi Tāmanuhiri) for korero, entertainment and official government addresses.
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