With Matariki Tauranga Moana 2022 celebrations about to begin, many in the city are already feeling the magic.

Mataatua, a theatre extravaganza presented by Te Wharekura o Mauao, has been wowing audiences at Baycourt, with singing, dance, haka, authentic storytelling and text. Tickets for this week's final two shows can be booked online.

The talented group of rangatahi and kaiako have set the tone for a special programme of Matariki events, with plenty more in store for our community next week.

Check out the full calendar of events here.

Join master navigator Jack Thatcher at the summit of Mauao at 5.45am on Tuesday, May 31 to hear kōrero on the significance of Matariki, to share in karakia and remember loved ones who have passed on in the year.

Tauranga City Libraries' Pae Korokī drop-in sessions launch on Tuesday, May 31. Pop into He Puna Wanangā at He Puna Manawa where the Heritage and Research team will guide you through the online wonders of Pae Korokī: Tauranga archives online.

Tauranga City Council will be livestreaming its Te Kete Ipurangi – Matariki online learning session from 10am to 11am on Wednesday, June 1 at www.tauranga.govt.nz. Explore the significance of Matariki, local customs and traditions, and how they can utilise this seasonal marker to cast an eye towards the year to come.

Bring the whānau along to Tauranga Art Gallery for a special Matariki Star Hunt, open daily from 10am to 4pm during the month of June.

The Incubator Creative Hub welcomes the community to attend the launch of its biggest and most diverse programme yet at 5.30pm on Thursday, June 2.

The programme includes more than 30 events with seven exhibitions, live music, a cinematic showcase, a market day, an artist panel talk, and a range of workshops. Three of those workshops are on next weekend, with plenty to learn and discover.

Learn how to make balm for your first aid kit and family care with native plants in the Rongoa Balms workshop on Saturday, June 4. The subsidised workshop from 9am to 11am quickly sold out, but you can add yourself to the waiting list if any tickets become available. A full priced workshop is available from 1.30pm to 3.30pm on Saturday, June 4.

The subsidised Parāoa Parai / Fry Bread Workshop, on Sunday, June 5 will teach you how to make a delicious treat found in many Māori households, marae, and at special occasions.

Only one subsidised workshop can be booked per person.

Take part and discover the significance of Matariki with whānau and friends. Visit www.mymatariki.co.nz to view the full Matariki Tauranga Moana 2022 programme.