Every year for Matariki, staff at Ōpōtiki isite coordinate a calendar of events that stretches over several weeks to educate, celebrate, and mark the annual rising of the Matariki stars.

Ōpōtiki isite Manager, Joseph Hayes, says that each year the celebrations get bigger and brighter, and more local organisations, individuals and businesses come on board to add their events or ideas.

“Matariki is quite different to other Ōpōtiki events because it is actually when all these incredible individuals and groups bring their own ideas to life and run their own amazing events," says Joseph.

“At the isite, we run a few events, particularly the concert with music and fireworks that is always a hit. But we also play a coordination role, pulling together the details into a calendar and promoting all the events together, showcasing Ōpōtiki as the place to be for Matariki."

Matariki community event 2022. Photo: Supplied.

Each year the range of events and opportunities gets wider, with something for everyone including whānau fun with music and dance, skatepark events and markets.

There are also often opportunities for learning and discovery including things like educational night walks, starwatching, storytelling, sports like Ki o Rahi, workshops and games.

“We have some incredible community groups who get involved every year and there are almost always arts, music, movies, breakfasts and stargazing, night walks and workshops.

“We’re meeting this Thursday to get the ball rolling and we’re welcoming anyone who wants to be part of this year’s celebrations. How could your business be involved? What skills do you have that you could share? What activity would you love to see marked out as part of Ōpōtiki’s unique Matariki celebrations?

“Anyone who is interested in being involved, knowing more, running events or volunteering should come along. Thursday at 5pm at Memorial Park Pavilion.

“This is our sixth time running a combined Matariki calendar of events and we are excited to see what sorts of neat ideas come to life this year," says Joseph.