"Ahimate was home to Ahimate pā or village where the Paneiri people once lived under Chief Te Kurupou.
"Ahimate loosely translates to 'lift tapu by way of fire' which was something the Paneiri did as a way of lifting the tapu off their loved ones once they'd passed.
"The significance of the bonfire is symbolic of lifting the tapu of the cooler seasons so that our community can enjoy the warmer ones.
"Ahimate, much like the Ruahine pā site, was also a major kūmara and food-growing area, so the fire was important for cooking to make 'noa' [free from tapu] and close the loop of the traditional fire custom."
City Mayor Grant Smith says the event is a staple on the city events calendar.
"Over the past few years, we've loved watching our community fall back in love with the Manawatū River and their enthusiasm for Ahimate Reserve.
"Events like this are helping to bring our Manawatū River Framework strategy to life.
"This event provides the perfect opportunity for families to have fun, learn about the history of the site, and look forward to the year ahead."
The event will be run under Covid-19 guidelines in place at the time.
Sanitiser and a QR code will be at the event.
If alert levels affect the event, the council will provide updates on its website and Facebook page.