We have learnt that the star in the cluster of Matariki named Pohutukawa represents those who have passed away. At Matariki we remember them.

As a symbol for those who have passed away, Mahoe are weaving stars that we will show on our Matariki evening. 

Māori believe that when someone dies, their mauri (spirit) travels up to a pohutukawa tree in Northland near Cape Reinga. And every year when Matariki appears in the sky, the spirits are released and travel up to the sky to be stars.