The Matariki Whānau Festival will be opened with kapa haka performances by Te Pū Ao and Hātea, followed by performances from Riqi Harawira and other local Māori performers.
The theme of this year's festival is Mai te Maunga ki te Moana - from the Mountains to the Sea.
The theme emphasises the Tai Ao (environment) and how the activities at the Matariki time of year focus on renewal, harvesting and planting. The council is working with providers and vendors to align with the zero waste initiative.
The Matariki market will be based on the Canopy Bridge and will feature traditional kai. Town Basin retailers are also being encouraged to provide Māori themed food and theme their premises.
Ngati Hau Health & Social Services are helping Whangārei District Council deliver the event.
They will provide toddlers activities for those aged under five and their whānau, and they will also be hosting the kuia and kaumātua zone on the day.
Whangārei District Libraries will lead interactive workshops with fun activities in the tamariki area for those aged five to 12 years.
There will be free tā moko, flax weaving, kite making, poi making and bubbles. Ngati Hine Health Trust will provide an interactive space for teenagers.
The main part of the festival will be located in the car park on the corner of Dent St and Hatea Drive. The car park will be closed to parking on June 29 for set up and June 30 for the festival.
