Matariki Week-The Maori New Year

            Matariki Celebrations in School

You may have heard of Matariki, you may not. Come and explore this unique annual celebration in New Zealand (Aotearoa) with us.

This week was Matariki celebration in the school. We celebrated Maori new year by doing different activities of Matariki with students and Teachers. There were various weaving competitions for the students and games for the teachers. All the winners get prizes. That's was excellent and encouragement for their participation in the celebration of Matariki. I also participate in teacher's quiz and won a grand prize. It is the first time I am celebrating Matariki in NZ, and I enjoyed it. All the arrangements were made by a Ruihia(Maori teacher). Staff briefing was in WhareNui this whole week. I was fascinated and curious to learn and to see this culture, and I feel blessed to be a part of these celebrations. ON the last day of the celebration week, there was lunch for teachers and Students in WhareKai. 

What is Matariki?

Matariki is the Māori name for a seven-star cluster also known as the seven sisters of Pleiades (the ancient Greek name).

In translation, Matariki means the ‘eyes of god’ (mata ariki) or ‘little eyes’ (mata riki).

For some Māori iwi (tribes), the first pre-dawn rise of Matariki in late May or early June signals the beginning of the Māori New Year. 

“Ka puta Matariki ka rere Whānui.
Ko te tohu tēnā o te tau e!

Matariki reappears, Vega starts its flight.
The new year begins!

Look for Matariki in the night sky.

Source: Richard Hall, Astronomy NZ

You’ll have to be up early! From early June, before sunrise (between 5.30-6.30am), look towards the north-east horizon for the stars that look like a pot.

They make up Orion’s belt (Tautoro). Then trace a line northwards. Look for a faint sparkle of tiny dots, about the same width as Orion’s belt is extended. This is the Matariki star cluster. 

Here are the Matariki song and a Short story!!!!!

"Understand and recognise the unique status of Tangata Whenua in Aotearoa 
New Zealand."
"Practise and develop the use of te reo and Tikanga Māori."