Matariki Lantern Design Competition
Celebrate. Create. Regenerate.
Design and make your own lantern to celebrate Matariki - The Māori New Year. Let your light shine with creativity, care for the environment, and ideas for a better future.
Understanding Matariki
Matariki is the Māori New Year, marked by the rising of the Matariki star cluster. It is a time of reflection, celebration, and new beginnings.
The Stars
The Matariki star cluster signals the Māori New Year and guides us through the seasons.
New Beginnings
A time to set intentions, plant seeds, and embrace fresh opportunities for growth.
Remembrance
We honour those who have passed and reflect on the year that has been.
Community
Matariki brings people together to celebrate, share kai, and strengthen bonds.
How It Works
Download
Design
Create
Build
Submit
Competition Prizes
David Trubridge Pendant Light
David Trubridge Pendant Light
David Trubridge Pendant Light
Competiton Questions
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The competition is open to everyone in the Hawke's Bay community, including schools, families, individuals, community groups, clubs, and organisations. Separate categories may be available for schools, families, and community groups.
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We encourage the use of sustainable, recycled, and natural materials wherever possible. Lanterns can be made from paper, cardboard, fabric, bamboo, timber, and other lightweight materials. Please avoid materials that are sharp, hazardous, or difficult to carry safely.
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Yes. Entries can be created individually or collaboratively. Schools, classrooms, community groups, clubs, families, and organisations are encouraged to work together on a lantern design and submit a group entry.
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Absolutely. Schools may submit multiple entries, whether from individual students, classrooms, year groups, or collaborative school projects. Each entry should be submitted separately.
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For safety reasons, we recommend using battery-powered LED lights rather than candles or open flames. Lanterns should be safe to carry during public events and suitable for use around other participants.
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Entries will be judged on:
- Creativity and originality
- Connection to the themes of Matariki
- Craftsmanship and presentation
- Use of sustainable or recycled materials
- Storytelling and meaning behind the design
The judging panel will be looking for lanterns that capture the spirit of Matariki while demonstrating imagination, care, and community values.
- Creativity and originality
If you want us to apply for you. Complete the entry below.
Competition Terms & Conditions
By submitting this form, you agree to participate in the Matariki Lantern Design Competition. All designs must adhere to our sustainability and safety criteria (LED lights only, no open flames). For a full copy of the official competition rules and legal terms, please contact: hello@ngatoihawkesbay.co.nz