Matariki is a sacred time in Aotearoa New Zealand. It marks the rise of the Matariki star cluster and heralds the arrival of the Māori New Year. It is a time to pause, honour those who have passed, invest meaningful moments in our families, and look forward to the year ahead with optimism.

This winter, we invite our local Coromandel neighbours to connect deeply with the land, the forest, and the night sky. Climb aboard our historic driving trains and journey up to the Eyeful Tower for an unforgettable Matariki celebration.

Whether you wish to share a memorable evening with young children or look deep into the cosmos with our astronomy guide, we have designed two distinct twilight experiences to help you look up, reflect, and celebrate together.

Book Your Matariki Train Ride

Understanding Te Iwa o Matariki

The Nine Stars of the Cluster

While hundreds of stars form this magnificent cluster, there are nine distinct stars that can be seen clearly with the naked eye. Each star holds a unique connection to our environment and guides our intentions for the year ahead:

  • Matariki

    The mother of the cluster. She signifies reflection, gathering together with family, and connecting with our community.

  • Pōhutukawa

    The star that connects us to our ancestors. It is the celestial space where we remember and honour those who have left us.

  • Waitī

    Associated with all fresh water. It watches over our rivers, lakes, and streams, and the creatures that live within them.

  • Waitā

    Associated with the vast ocean. It protects our marine life, tides, and the bounty of the sea.

  • Waipuna-ā-rangi

    Connected to the winter rains, atmospheric moisture, and the life-giving waters that feed the earth.

  • Tupu-ā-nuku

    The star of food that grows within the soil. It watches over our gardens, crops, and underground root vegetables.

  • Tupu-ā-rangi

    The star of food that comes from above the ground, including the birds, berries, and fruits found high in the forest canopy.

  • Ururangi

    Connected to the winds. It determines the nature of the breezes and weather patterns for the year.

  • Hiwa-i-te-rangi

    The wishing star. This is the star to which we send our dreams, desires, and hopes for the coming year.

Choose Your Matariki Journey

We are running two exclusive train departures on Friday, July 10th 2026. Please select the experience that best suits your family.

The Family Matariki Train Ride

  • Departure Time: 4.30 pm (Please arrive 15 minutes prior)
  • Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
  • Perfect For: Families with children of all ages who want to experience the magic of the night without staying up past bedtime.

Experience the wonder of the forest shifting from light to dark. Your family will depart the station in the soft winter twilight, ascending through the regenerating native bush. By the time we reach the summit at the Eyeful Tower, the twilight will give way to the early night.

At the top, everyone will enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and marshmallows to warm up. You are welcome to bring along a family picnic to enjoy at the summit while taking in the breathtaking views over the Hauraki Gulf. On the downward journey, we will dim the train lights, allowing you and your children to listen closely to the evening sounds of the forest as we head back to base.

Book the Family Train Ride

Evening Matariki Stargazer Train Ride

  • Departure Time: 6.30 pm (Please arrive 15 minutes prior)
  • Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes
  • Perfect For: Adults and families with older children (aged 12 and over) seeking a deeper educational and astronomical experience.

Reach for the stars at Driving Creek. Departing in the full clarity of the winter night, this journey takes you deep into the darkness of the hills to experience the night sky at its most brilliant.

Upon arrival at the Eyeful Tower, you will be treated to an expert stargazing talk. Our guide will point out the celestial bodies and share traditional knowledge regarding the Matariki cluster. To keep you comfortable, we will provide hot drinks and cosy blankets, but we highly recommend wrapping up warm in your best winter layers.

This evening event is a bring-your-own-beverage (BYOB) experience, and guests are highly encouraged to pack a winter picnic to enjoy under the stars.

Book the Stargazer Train Ride

Matariki can only be seen in the early morning before sunrise and is not visible during the afternoon or evening in the winter.

A Note on Catering and Dietary Requirements

We want to ensure everyone stays warm and well looked after. If you or anyone in your group is dairy-free, please let us know by ticking the appropriate checkbox at the checkout screen. This will allow our team to organise alternative dairy-free hot drinks for your journey up the mountain.

Strictly Limited Capacity

Secure Your Spots Today

Because our unique heritage trains have a fixed number of seats, ticket availability for these two Matariki departures is strictly limited. Avoid disappointment and ensure your local family does not miss out on this beautiful mid-winter tradition.

Secure Your Matariki Tickets Now