Come together for a 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.
Saturday 21st June | 6:30am – 8:30am
Location: The Esplanade (between Ramsgate and Margate Streets)
What to Expect:
- Cultural storytelling around a beach fire — a moment to connect with the traditions and meaning of Matariki.
- Telescopes pointed northeast for pre-sunrise stargazing (6:30–7:30am).
- Solar scope viewing from 7:45am to spot sunspots as the new day begins.
- Sauna Project Kaikoura — Enjoy one of 3 free rejuvenating 30-minute beach sauna sessions (6am, 6,30am & 7am) followed by an invigorating sunrise dip in the sea. Max. of 10 people per session. Pre-bookings essential: Sauna Project Kaikōura
- Astrophotography Quiet Zone — A designated area for photographers with tripods to capture Matariki’s heliacal rising in peace.
Important Info:
- 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.