It may have been chilly in Tauranga but it was near perfect conditions for the Matariki Kite Day with about 1000 kite enthusiasts taking part.

The Matariki Kite Day was one of the line-up events for Matariki Tauranga Moana Festival held at Ferguson Park which got underway at 12pm and is expected to finish at 4pm.

About 1000 people took part in today's Matariki Kite Day at Ferguson Park. Photos: Chris Callinan

Māori Services Specialist Information Librarian Bernie Johnson says the day is a much-loved feature of the Matariki calendar and reflected ancient Māori kite-flying traditions.

'Kites were traditionally seen as connectors between the heavens and the earth so the Matariki Kite Day is not only a spectacular visual feast that delights the whole whanau, it's also a terrific way to celebrate our past.

'By giving traditional Māori kite flying a modern twist, we're keeping this proud tradition alive and inspiring the next generation.”

Kiara Puche, 8, works up a good amount of speed to get her kite up and flying as her dad Alfredo Puche watches on.