Aotearoa is celebrating Matariki for the fourth time since it was officially made a public holiday, with a particular focus on the star Puanga.

The theme for this years holiday is Matariki mā Puanga - which highlights the star Puanga or Rigel - an important star in the astronomical traditions of many iwi especially in the western half of New Zealand, in areas such as Taranaki, Whanganui and parts of Northland.

In late autumn and early winter Puanga can be seen in the eastern night sky.

To find Puanga look to the eastern horizon above the three stars of Tautoru or Orion's Belt.

The national Matariki ceremony is being hosted this year by Ngāti Rangi, at Tirorangi Marae at the base of Ruapehu.

The Māori Queen Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po will be in attendance at Tirorangi alongside other dignitaries including Ministers Paul Goldsmith and Tama Potaka.

Mixed forecast for star-gazing

Both the Matariki star cluster and Puanga will be visible low on the eastern horizon just before the rising of the sun.

According to NIWA's 2025 Matariki cloud cover forecast, the best viewing likely on Friday and Saturday in many areas.

NIWA meteorologist and forecaster Chris Brandolino said eastern regions, such as Hawkes Bay and Wairarapa and the lower North Island, along with parts of the upper and eastern South Island, can expect clearer skies this weekend to observe Matariki.