Mai Matariki Community Day 2026

Mai Matariki Community Day is back for 2026 and once again, Auckland Zoo invites visitors to reconnect with whānau and embrace the wairua of Matariki!

Matariki is a time to remember those we have lost, to celebrate our present together, and to plan for the year to come. What a better time to reconnect with whānau, wildlife and nature and create lasting memories together with a community day!

This year we will be teaming up with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei to plant trees at Takaparawhau Bastion Point on Wednesday 15 July.

As part of Auckland's cultural organisations, the Zoo is celebrating the waitī whetū, this whetū represents freshwater and all living things that inhabit rivers, lakes, streams and wetlands! A constant reminder - that a thriving environment means a thriving community and people.

We'll have two delicious food trucks on site J's Mighty Fry Up, Those Guys J&M & Kiwi Coffee Karts serving hot coffee and warm drinks throughout the morning.

Mānawatia a Matariki from Auckland Zoo!

Auckland Zoo, Te Pā Hono, a place of connection.