A popular night market in the Hastings city centre returns for a special Matariki celebration on Thursday.
Organisers have halted the weekly market during winter, but arranged for a one-off event to mark this special, uniquely New Zealand occasion.
"Matariki is something that really lights my fire, giving thanks for the bountiful year is pretty near and dear to me," Hastings City Business Association manager and night market organiser Susan McDade said.
"It's something that New Zealand has, all of its own. It's not something borrowed from another country. I think there will be more Matariki celebrations held in future."
The event will run from 5pm to 8pm, with special guests Kahungunu Dream Girls, who will MC and perform throughout the evening, and there will be kapa haka demonstrations by students from Karamu High School.