Te Matatini is the national kapa haka (Māori performing arts) festival, held every two years. Te Matatini o Ngā Taniwha 2027 runs from 23 to 27 February at Hopuhopu Sports Park, Ngāruawāhia, hosted by Tainui, with 57 groups and about 100,000 people expected. Adult day tickets are $44 and five-day passes $180 (plus fees), after a 20% price cut. Kaumātua aged 70 and over get in free.
On this page
Key facts
- When
- 23 to 27 February 2027
- Where
- Hopuhopu Sports Park, 451 Old Taupiri Road, Ngāruawāhia
- Adults (18 to 64)
- $44 single day, $180 five-day pass
- Youth (12 to 17)
- $32 single day, $140 five-day pass
- Children (6 to 11)
- $24 single day, $100 five-day pass
- Seniors
- 65 to 69: $36 day, $140 pass. 70+ free (ticket still needed)
- Infants (0 to 5)
- Free with a paying adult or senior (ticket still needed)
- Seating
- General admission only, no reserved seats
- Can't go?
- Live on TVNZ, Whakaata Māori and livestream
What it is
Kapa haka is Māori performing arts: group song, dance, haka and chant, performed with precision and deep meaning. Te Matatini is the national festival, where the country’s top rōpū (groups) compete. Its name means “many faces”, reflecting the diversity of performers and audience.
The first festival was held in Rotorua in 1972 as the New Zealand Polynesian Festival. It was renamed Te Matatini in 2004 and celebrated 50 years in 2022. The 2025 festival in Ngāmotu New Plymouth was the biggest yet, with 55 teams.
Te Matatini o Ngā Taniwha 2027 is hosted by Te Matatini patron Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, Te Matatini and the people of Tainui waka, at Hopuhopu Sports Park near Ngāruawāhia, from 23 to 27 February. It will be the largest national kapa haka festival ever held, with 57 rōpū performing over four days of competition in front of about 100,000 people.
What to expect
Four days of competition, then a final day when twelve finalists compete for the Ngāpō Pīmia Wehi Duncan MacIntyre Trophy and the title of Toa Whakaihuwaka, the overall winner. Each performance is a powerful mix of language, culture and storytelling. Expect a large, warm crowd, with whānau (families) supporting their groups. Stallholders and sponsors are on site.
Day tickets let you dip in. Five-day passes are better value if you want to follow the competition.
Who it suits
Anyone who wants to experience Māori culture at its highest level, from fans who know every group to first-time visitors. With general admission and family pricing, it is easy to bring children.
Tickets and booking
Prices were cut by 20% on 4 November 2026, and kaumātua 70+ now get in free. Buy online at tematatini.co.nz.
| Ticket | Single day | Five-day pass |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (18 to 64) | $44 | $180 |
| Seniors (65 to 69) | $36 | $140 |
| Youth (12 to 17) | $32 | $140 |
| Children (6 to 11) | $24 | $100 |
| Kaumātua (70+) | Free | Free |
| Infants (0 to 5) | Free with a paying adult or senior | Free |
A ticket service fee and payment processing fee apply. Free entrants must still order a ticket or pass. All seating is general admission.
Getting there
Hopuhopu Sports Park is at 451 Old Taupiri Road, Ngāruawāhia, in the Waikato, just off the Waikato Expressway. Estimated drive times:
- Hamilton: about 30 minutes
- Hamilton Airport: about 40 minutes
- Auckland city: about 1 hour 25 minutes
- Auckland Airport: about 1 hour 20 minutes
Check the official festival site for parking and transport arrangements closer to the time.
Where to stay
Hamilton has the most accommodation nearby. With 100,000 people expected, beds across the Waikato will book out, so book early. You could also stay in Auckland and drive down for a day.
What to bring
Sunscreen, a hat, water and layers. Late February in the Waikato is usually warm, and you will be outdoors for long sessions.
Make a trip of it
The Waikato is close to two of New Zealand’s most popular sights: see our Hobbiton tour guide and Waitomo Glowworm Caves guide. Our things to do in Rotorua guide covers more Māori culture experiences.
FAQ
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Sources
Last checked 11 November 2026 against the organiser's own pages
