Established as an official public holiday in 2022, in 2023 Matariki is being observed on Friday 15th July. It is the second time it is to be observed as a public holiday in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades. The rising of the stars symbolises the start of a new year in Māori culture. It is observed by iwi throughout Aotearoa but often at different times throughout winter, because Matariki isn't visible in all parts of New Zealand, especially in areas to the west of mountains.
Matariki is quite a beautiful celebration as it is about gratitude and traditionally serves as a reminder to take time to remember family who are with us or who have passed on, celebrate what we have, and look forward to the future.
Matariki is most often celebrated with friends and family, gathered together to share a meal.
At Onyx we will be open from 11am on Matariki Friday for Brunch, Lunch, Dinner & Dessert.
We would love to host you if you are planning on sharing a meal with family or friends to celebrate Matariki.
Plus there is no surcharge on the Public Holiday.