Matari’i i nia 2025 celebrations

The Matari’i i nia 2025 celebrations

In the traditional Polynesian calendar, Matari’i ni’a corresponds to the sunrise of the Pleiades (Matari’i) around November. This astronomical phenomenon marks the beginning of the season of abundance, characterised by the return of rain, flowering, fertile soils and a profusion of marine and land resources. An astronomical, spiritual and community festival, it illustrates the deep connection between people, nature and the stars.

Published on 21 October 2025

Consult the press kit

20 November

A historic date

In 2025, 20 November officially became a public holiday in French Polynesia. This recognition marks an important step in the enhancement of Polynesian cultural heritage, giving it a central place in public and social life. It allows every Polynesian to celebrate this day, which is devoted to the celebration of Matari’i i ni’a, the rising of the Pleiades and the beginning of the season of plenty.

The population and visitors to The Islands of Tahiti are invited to take part in the celebrations organised for the first time on 20 November in Papeete and 22 November in Tautira. These festive events, organised by The Islands of Tahiti , Te Fare Tauhiti Nui and Tahiti Tourisme, are in addition to the various events organised during the same period by different cultural associations, local authorities, etc.

Tourists invited to join us

“Visitors to Tahiti and her Islands will be invited to come and celebrate Matari’i i ni’a at these events. Tahiti Tourisme will communicate with the tourism industry and in particular with tourist accommodations about the possibility for their guests to participate.”

Media coverage

Internationally

Against the backdrop of a development strategy for sustainable tourism, one of the pillars of which is the promotion of Polynesian culture, Tahiti Tourisme will be organising trips for the international press to cover the Matari’i i ni’a.

This is an opportunity to reiterate that the destination’s positioning strategy remains centred on an authentic Polynesia, driven by a living, shared culture.

A period rich in media coverage, with events promoting Polynesian culture taking place at the same time, such as the ‘Ori Tahiti Nui Competition and the Hura Taipairu Manihini.

Like Matariki in New Zealand, Matari’i i ni’a in The Islands of Tahiti can reinforce the international image of Fenua as a destination with an iconic and vibrant Polynesian cultural identity.

Papeete

On Thursday 20 November 2025, join us for a cultural and festive evening dedicated to the raising of the Matari’i i ni’a, symbolising the return of abundance and sharing.

Thursday 20 November

Tautira - Tatatua Park

Experience an exceptional day at the rhythm of tradition with the Tu’aro Ma’ohi, which will showcase the strength and skill of our tupuna: tug-of-war, fruit carrying, javelin throwing, stone lifting…

Saturday 22nd November