"We just want everyone to come together to celebrate Matariki. People will see the vibrancy and I think everyone will enjoy the entertainment from the young groups as well.
"It is a time to connect with our loved ones."
There will be food stalls, sky lanterns and fireworks to complement the musical performances.
Following this, on Saturday the Matariki festivities continue and the celebration begins at Takapau School from 6pm.
The event kicks off with a special tour at 3pm from Takapau School to Rakautatahi Marae, which is then followed by a powhiri and official welcome.
Song and dance will carry everyone through the evening with the band Tipene and Friends opening and a group performance by Takapau Playcentre, Rakautatahi/Te Rongo a Tahu/Te Rongo Pai te Kohanga Reo o Takapau, Takapau Primary School and Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Takapau continuing the celebratory mood.
There will also be performances by Mau Rakau, The Takapau Boys, Tupaea Stars and Pukekaihau Kapa Haka.
To top the evening off lanterns and fireworks will fly up into the sky.
These events mark the first weekend of Kahungunu Matariki and next weekend the festivities move to Flaxmere Park on Friday and the Napier Soundshell on Saturday.
On June 23 the Wairoa community are invited to celebrate Matariki and on July 14 the Maori New Year reaches Dannevirke.
Mr Makoare wanted to thank Ngati Kahungunu and Te Taimu Trust for their continued support and sponsorship.
"We are in our third year this year and I hope it continues for years to come.
"No matter what race you are we all come together and give belief to people in harmony."