The Matariki mā Puaka Festival, set for tomorrow, will now be hosted indoors at Forsyth Barr Stadium, ensuring the event can proceed as planned.
Interim destination manager Teresa Fogarty explained that persistent rain had left the initial outdoor venue unusable. “While the change might be a surprise for some people, we’re excited about the opportunities the new venue presents,” she remarked.
She described Forsyth Barr Stadium as an outstanding location, providing a safe and comfortable space for the community to unite and celebrate Matariki. “The pitch is in excellent condition, and we’ll be creating spaces with plenty of kai, entertainment, and seating where people can relax, connect, and enjoy the evening together,” Fogarty added.
The stadium will serve as the primary venue from 3pm to 9pm.
Entertainment inside will feature headliner Tiki Taane, alongside local talents such as Dubious Groove, Tough Guy, Ngahau Tene, and Te Kapa o Rukutia.
Admission is free, with access through gates C, D, and E on the north stand side.
Outside, drone displays will illuminate the sky, viewable from University Oval fields 4 and 5. The two shows are scheduled for 6pm and 8.45pm, each lasting 10 minutes.
“Although attendees won’t have to contend with muddy conditions at the main festival event as they have in previous years, we still encourage audiences to wear gumboots or sturdy footwear to watch the drone shows,” Allied Media advised.
