As Matariki rises once again in 2026, Tāmaki Makaurau is invited to pause, reflect and reconnect as the appearance of the Matariki constellation marks the Māori New Year – Te Mātahi o te Tau, a time to remember loved ones, celebrate the present and look ahead to the future.
Matariki is a star cluster located in the Taurus constellation that is seen on New Zealand’s northeastern horizon just before the rising of the sun, typically appearing in our skies in mid-winter. And right across our region, we’re spoilt for choice on where to catch a glimpse of this stellar event - as long as we get up early enough to catch it.
Whether you’re after a local urban vantage point or a cosy overnighter at a remote coastal setting to welcome Matariki, here are some of the best spots to catch the stars. Don’t forget to pack the thermos and plenty of blankets to keep you warm and enjoy this special occasion with friends and whānau.
Ōmaru, Glenn Innes
Stretching along the Tāmaki Estuary, Ōmaru (formerly known as Point England Reserve) offers a unique blend of coastal tranquility and city accessibility. Its 41 hectares offer a combination of rural land, epic views along the costal edge and easy connections to the calming Ōmaru Stream, flowing out to the drifting waters of Te Wai Mokoia.
Bring your torch and follow the Tāmaki Path as it winds along the water’s edge. A flat, family-friendly walkway, where you can listen to the gentle lapping of the water on your way to take in the wide-open skies above the estuary as you settle into this ideal spot for stargazing.
For a truly magical Matariki experience head to Auckland Council Regional Parks
Ready for a more remote, deeper connection to Matariki? Head to a regional park where darker skies that illuminate the stars and, weather permitting, ideal stargazing settings await. Just remember gates for Regional Parks open from 6am to 7pm over winter. Visitors are welcome before 6am but should prepare to walk from the front gate where there is parking available.
In Waharau Regional Park you’ll find minimal light pollution, making it one of Auckland’s best spots for witnessing the brilliance of Matariki. Set between the Hunua Ranges and the Firth of Thames, the park combines farmland, forest and coastlines, creating a peaceful backdrop for night-time reflection.
Stroll through the fields of Waharau Regional Park and catch the early morning views of Matariki.
Its neighbour Tāpapakanga Regional Park is an idyllic coastal farm park, with rich history and open, expansive views facing the Coromandel Peninsula.
Coastal views and farm animals make this regional park worth a visit this Matariki.
For a remote spot up North, at the tip of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula you’ll find Shakespear Regional Park, one of the most visited regional parks in Auckland due to its accessible open sanctuary that seamlessly integrates conservation, recreation and farming.
Shakespear Regional Park.
Surrounded by the Hauraki Gulf, its open landscapes and coastal vantage points create ideal viewing conditions for Matariki, especially from Te Haruhi Bay. The park’s protected sanctuary status adds to the sense of stillness, making it a special place to reflect on the past year, and the one ahead.
Onetangi Beach Strand, Waiheke
Waiheke Island offers a magical setting for Matariki, and Onetangi Beach stands out as one of its best stargazing spots as Waiheke’s longest beach, giving you uninterrupted views of the horizon. Due to ferry times, if you’re not an island local or a boatie, you’ll need to stay the night to catch Matariki. A great option is the nearby Waiheke Backpackers Hostel at Onetangi. Enjoy private rooms, positioned above the beach with a starlit theatre of unobstructed stargazing and relax into the weekend ahead at this island paradise. If you’re able to make the time, explore the 3km Onetangi Beach Path along the waterfront or the 2.8km Onetangi Hidden Gems Path and enjoy the local birdsong as you connect to nature. You can also camp at Whakanewha Regional Park for more local adventures.
Auckland Council Holiday Parks
Have you seen the geo domes at Martins Bay Holiday Park? Its a perfect way to enjoy nature and have the starry Matariki sky right at your geo dome.
For a weekend getaway option on the mainland, consider any one of the three Auckland Council Holiday Parks which offer a delightful overnight adventure in idyllic low-light coastal settings with convenience, comfort and warmth.
You’ll find a tranquil waterfront gem in Whangateau Holiday Park, a family-friendly paradise with calm harbour waters and perfectly positioned between Matakana and Leigh. Ōrewa Beach Holiday Park is just 30 minutes north of the city and offers plenty of entertainment and recreational activities, plus a 3km stretch of golden sand. Or escape to the hidden coastal haven that is Martins Bay Holiday Park where the views are epic, day or night, and relaxation awaits.
So, wherever you choose to mark Matariki this year, take a moment to step outside, , look up and honour the stories written in the stars.