Magical Mission
Challenge
Matariki, the Māori New Year, is a time of stars, stories, and connection. It is about honouring the past, celebrating the present, and preparing for the year ahead. Yet many families, especially younger generations, are still learning what Matariki means and why it is so important. The challenge is how to bring these traditions to life in a way that feels exciting and enticing, helping communities connect with culture, place, and belonging.
Solution
Magical Mission: Matariki is currently in development by Geo AR Games, created by recycling proven mechanics from Scout About and Captain Green and combining them with the artwork and cultural elements of Magical Park: Matariki. This makes it a low-cost, sustainable game that delivers a fresh and entertaining experience. The app works on most devices and once downloaded does not require mobile data or wifi. Players set out to find the stars that the cheeky Patupaiarehe have hidden. With the app in hand, families search for QR-code posters placed around a park, community hall, museum, or other public space. Each scan returns a star to the sky and reveals animations, cultural facts, and stories in both English and Te Reo Māori. Unlike static information signs, Magical Mission delivers visitor insights. Through its analytics portal, the resort can track dwell time at key locations, monitor overall foot traffic, and understand which content engages families most.
Positive Impact
Magical Mission: Matariki invites families to explore together while deepening their understanding of Māori tradition. The cultural facts and stories are presented in playful, memorable ways, making them easy for children and adults alike to absorb and share. With content in both English and Te Reo Māori, the game celebrates Aotearoa’s identity and makes the experience accessible to a wide range of families. For communities, the game is a low-cost resource that can be reused each year, reinforcing Matariki as a time of gathering, reflection, and celebration. It offers councils and organisations a way to mark the Māori New Year that is interactive, educational, and inclusive, creating a sense of belonging and pride in Aotearoa’s identity.
Overview
Matariki, the Māori New Year, is a time of stars, stories, and connection. It is about honouring the past, celebrating the present, and preparing for the year ahead. Yet many families, especially younger generations, are still learning what Matariki means and why it is so important. The challenge is how to bring these traditions to life in a way that feels exciting and enticing, helping communities connect with culture, place, and belonging.
Video Trailer
Magical Mission: Matariki is currently in development by Geo AR Games, created by recycling proven mechanics from Scout About and Captain Green and combining them with the artwork and cultural elements of Magical Park: Matariki. This makes it a low-cost, sustainable game that delivers a fresh and entertaining experience. The app works on most devices and once downloaded does not require mobile data or wifi. Players set out to find the stars that the cheeky Patupaiarehe have hidden. With the app in hand, families search for QR-code posters placed around a park, community hall, museum, or other public space. Each scan returns a star to the sky and reveals animations, cultural facts, and stories in both English and Te Reo Māori. Unlike static information signs, Magical Mission delivers visitor insights. Through its analytics portal, the resort can track dwell time at key locations, monitor overall foot traffic, and understand which content engages families most.
