Great Journeys New Zealand invites passengers to celebrate Matariki by rail
Discover Kaikōura’s night skies on an immersive Matariki stargazing adventure
This Matariki, Great Journeys New Zealand is offering a unique one-day rail journey from Ōtautahi Christchurch to Kaikōura, celebrating the Māori New Year through culture, storytelling, and the spectacular southern skies.
The 2026 Matariki Rail Experience honours the cultural significance of Matariki, a time for remembrance, reflection, and renewal. Guests will gather to share stories, connect with nature, and look toward the year ahead, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of Aotearoa’s east coast.
Departing Ōtautahi Christchurch on Saturday 11 July 2026, the return journey features premium seasonal kai, including a Matariki-inspired charcuterie and entrée en route to Kaikōura, followed by a hearty winter dinner and dessert on the return trip. This ensures a warm, social, and memorable experience for all passengers.
In Kaikōura, guests will disembark at sunset and be transported to the historic Fyffe House, located within the internationally recognised Kaikōura Dark Sky Sanctuary. Here, local experts will guide an immersive stargazing experience, with telescopes, cozy fire pits, and warming drinks.
On the significance of Matariki, KiwiRail Pou Whakahaere – EGM Māori Logan Kahui says:
“Matariki is a time to honour our tīpuna (ancestors) and to reflect on our connections to each other, to the land, and to the wider cosmos. In keeping with this year’s theme, Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone, which literally translates to the gathering of many canoes, we recognise the many paths that bring us together and the shared journeys we undertake as communities. The rising of the Matariki cluster signals remembrance, hope, and renewal, encouraging us to give thanks for the year that has passed while gathering collectively to set intentions for the year ahead.”
“This rail journey offers passengers a chance to connect with the wairua (spirit) of Matariki and to experience the natural beauty of the east coast in a way that reflects Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone. It is an opportunity to come together, to learn about Māori customs and stories, and to appreciate the diverse journeys that unite us.”
“By pausing under Kaikōura’s stars, guests can deepen their understanding of the seasonal cycles of te ao Māori, while embracing the inclusive spirit that Matariki represents.”
Highlighting the experiential journey, Great Journeys New Zealand Executive General Manager Tracey Goodall adds:
“We’ve designed this experience to give guests more than just a scenic train ride. It’s an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and immerse themselves in the stories, culture, and traditions of Matariki, all while enjoying the spectacular Kaikōura coastline and night skies.”
“Passengers can expect an evening of connection, whether it’s the people they travel with, local storytellers, or with the stars above. It’s a chance to celebrate, to share, and to take a moment of pause and wonder during this special season.”
Destination Kaikōura’s Destination Manager Lisa Bond says she is also thrilled to welcome guests to the east coast for this unique Matariki experience.
“Kaikōura is a place of natural wonder, and during Matariki, the magic of our coastline is amplified under the clear night skies. This special rail journey gives visitors the chance to experience our internationally recognised Dark Sky Sanctuary, hear local stories, and connect with the rhythms of the land and the stars.”