Ōpōtiki District Council’s two-week Matariki Festival wrapped up with a spectacular finale on Saturday night.

The council’s experience and engagement co-ordinator Iranui Huriwai said it was the biggest and most successful festival to date.

“We recorded our biggest festival yet, with strong attendance across the two-week festival and fantastic community support at every event.

“From the very first event, the community got behind the festival in a big way,” she said.

Among the standout events was a Matariki Disco at Te Tāhuhu o te Rangi - Ōpōtiki library, which attracted more than 200 people, with children dressing as their favourite book characters.

Both of the festival’s screenings of award winning documentary Taiarahia: Te Kāhahu Tawhito, executive produced by Kim Webby, at the Ōpōtiki Deluxe Theatre were sold out, which Huriwai said highlighted the strong community appetite for local storytelling and shared experiences.

More than 80 people joined the Night Walk at Hukutaia Domain, hosted by the Hukutaia Care Group, where they learned about the unique native species that call the reserve home and gained a deeper appreciation for the local environment.

Whangai i te Hautapu at Ōpeke Marae, hosted by Te Tāwharau o Te Whakatōhea, was another standout event, where people gathered before dawn to view the rising Matariki stars.

The Matariki Wānanga ki Kutarere was also well attended, with whānau travelling from near and far to enjoy the range of activities and learning opportunities on offer.

The Matariki Quiz Night saw nine teams battle it out for bragging rights and the top spot, creating plenty of laughs and friendly competition.

Saturday night’s concert included performances by Zentarge, Just2Māori and Rei and Son & Water.

College students Raniera Amai and Tamati Jensen were MCs.

“Visitors and performers alike commented on the warmth and manaakitanga that makes Ōpōtiki so special,” Huriwai said.

“The success of this year’s festival reflects a growing embrace of Matariki across our community and reinforces its importance as a time to come together, reflect on the past, celebrate the present and look forward to the future.

“It was wonderful to see so many locals, whānau returning home, and visitors coming together to celebrate Matariki, learn new things, care for our environment, and spend time with one another.”