Ōpōtiki Matariki concert to shine with incredible stars

This year, as New Zealand celebrates the first national holiday for Matariki, Ōpōtiki will host 11 days of events and activities for the whole family. And the jewel in the crown will be a final concert and fireworks display featuring Parson James, Maimoa, The Modern Maori Quartet and more.

Opotiki i-SITE manager, Joseph Hayes, said that he was thrilled to welcome back Parson James to Ōpōtiki and the district clearly had made an impression since his last visit.

“He really does love our little corner of the world and we are so proud to host him again this year. He jumped at the chance to come back and we hope we can give him the warmest Ōpōtiki welcome on 26 June.

“We also have some big New Zealand artists including Maimoa – possibly the most important music collective in Aotearoa with young Māori artists growing and developing waiata Māori for a new generation. And the Modern Māori Quartet with their crooning local sound. The Harmonic Resonators were incredibly popular last timet hey were in town so its awesome to have them back too. Local kapa haka, singers and song-writers will also be sharing their talent. There are also Māori games, kai stalls and of course the fireworks, so it is going to be an incredible night,” Mr Hayes said.

For the first time this year, the event will have a small charge to help cover the costs. Under 13 year olds are free and a single ticket (everyone over 13 years old) it is just $5. You can also purchase a ‘Whānau and friends’ special ticket for $10 which is any four adults – mix and match family or friends.

Tickets can be purchased online at ticketfinda.co.nz or from the i-SITE and if you miss out there will be gate sales as well.

Joseph encouraged people to get their hands on a calendar of events for the full ten days of activities including stargazing, workshops, a night market, waka ama, ice skating, a Matariki Glow Show, some family-friendly and educational events at Te Tāhuhu o Te Rangi Opotiki Library, and a full Ki o Rahi Whanau Fun Day at Memorial Park with a blow up obstacle course.

Calendars can be found online or picked up from Council offices, i-SITE, Te Tāhuhu o Te Rangi or in various businesses in Ōpōtiki or emailed if you contact infocentre@odc.govt.nz