The museum is hosting a dawn ceremony on its forecourt at 7am, which will feature a Matariki-themed projection.
Otago Museum director Dr Ian Griffin said the introduction of a Matariki public holiday next year meant the museum had the opportunity to mark the importance of the event.
"For us, the combination of the cultural traditions, but with the science as well makes it really exciting for us as a museum."
Museum staff were hoping to livestream the Matariki constellation rising from a Hoopers Inlet telescope as part of the projection, although there were technical challenges to overcome for this ambition to be realised — and weather.
The dawn ceremony will include a karakia for the return of Matariki, and a whakamaumahara to remember those who have died in the past year.
The ceremony then moves inside and will include a free community breakfast at the museum cafe.
Then, from 9am, the museum will host a community fun event with kapa haka performances, workshops and craft activities.
