This year the Matariki holiday falls on Friday 28 June.

Matariki is a time of reflection, renewal, and connection with our ancestors and the natural world. 

Matariki, also known as the Pleiades star cluster, holds great cultural and spiritual significance. The nine stars of Matariki each carry their own meaning, symbolising different aspects of life and the natural world. 

Let's take a closer look at these stars and what they represent:

1. Matariki - The central star, Matariki, represents reflection, hope, and new beginnings. It is a time to set goals and aspirations for the coming year.

2. Pohutukawa - Symbolising family, Pohutukawa is the star that reminds us of the importance of kinship, love, and support within our communities.

3. Tupu-ā-nuku - This star is connected to the growth and harvest of crops. It signifies the earth's fertility, agricultural practices, and the importance of sustainable living.

4. Tupu-ā-rangi - The star of the winds, Tupu-ā-rangi, encourages us to embrace the arts, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge. It represents intellectual and spiritual growth.

5. Waitī - Associated with freshwater bodies such as rivers and lakes, Waitī symbolises the realm of food and sustenance. It represents the importance of nourishment and the earth's abundance.

6. Waitā - Associated with the ocean and represents food gathered from the sea. This star is also significant for its influences over tides and floodwaters.

7. Waipuna-ā-rangi - Associated with rain, cleansing, and the replenishment of the earth. It reminds us of the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability.

8. Ururangi - Representing the realm of the heavens and celestial navigation, Ururangi symbolises travel, exploration, and the connections between people and places.

9. Hiwa-i-te-rangi - Represents our hopes, dreams, and aspirations. It encourages us to set goals and resolutions for the year ahead.

Here are some ideas for how you can celebrate this meaningful occasion at home with your whānau:

1. Host a Matariki feast: Prepare a special meal together as a family, incorporating traditional Maori ingredients and recipes.

2. Stargazing: On a clear night, bundle up and head outdoors to observe the stars. Use star maps or astronomy apps to locate the Pleiades star cluster (Matariki) and encourage your children to reflect on the significance of these stars.

3. Create Matariki-inspired crafts: Engage in art and craft activities by making Matariki-inspired decorations such as star-shaped mobiles, woven flax stars, or paintings of the night sky.

4. Storytelling and learning: Explore Maori legends and stories associated with Matariki. Read books or watch videos that share the cultural significance of this celebration. Encourage your children to share their own stories and thoughts about Matariki.

Wishing you a joyous Matariki filled with reflection, connection, and new beginnings.