1960s

Te Matatini can trace its genesis from 11 August 1964, when the then Māori Purposes Fund Board discussed the idea of appointing a committee “to consider and make a recommendation on a proposal that the Board sponsor and grant prizes for a National Maori Cultural competition or competitions”. 

The establishment of a cultural festival was supported at the 1969 National Development Conference. 

1970s

In 1970 the Minister of Māori Affairs established a committee to oversee and convene what were to become known as Polynesian Festivals.

The first festival of Māori performing arts was held in Rotorua in 1972, funded by the Māori Purposes Fund Board.  Hosted by Te Arawa it set the pattern of administration and management which continues today.

1990s

In 1996, the Aotearoa Traditional Māori Performing arts Society was registered as an Incorporated Society and thereafter commonly referred to by its acronym ATMPAS.

In 1998, ATMPAS received annual funding for the first time by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage.  That funding support continues today,

2000s

In 2004, ATMPAS changed to Te Matatini. 

The name “Te Matatini” was bestowed by Professor Wharehuia Milroy, te reo Māori expert, in 2003 to represent the ‘many faces’ to which Te Matatini could appeal to and would draw interest from. 

“Māori performing arts bring together people of all ages, all backgrounds, all beliefs, Māori and non-Māori alike, participants and observers.  When I look, I see many faces, young and old – Te Matatini” Professor Wharehuia Milroy

Te Matatini – the new name – was launched at New Zealand Parliament in March 2004.