2022 is the first year we observe a public holiday for Matariki - but what is Matariki?

Matariki signals the Māori New Year. It is a time of renewal and celebration in New Zealand that begins with the rising of the Matariki star cluster.

The two meanings of Matariki both refer to stars: mata ariki (eyes of god) and mata riki (little eyes).

When is Matariki?

Matariki is a star cluster which appears in the night sky during mid-winter. According to the Maramataka (Māori lunar calendar) the reappearance of Matariki brings the old lunar year to a close and marks the beginning of the new year. Hence, Matariki is associated with the Māori New Year.

Traditionally, festivities were conducted to celebrate Matariki. Festivities include the lighting of ritual fires, the making of offerings, and celebrations of various kinds to farewell the dead, to honour ancestors, and to celebrate life.

Tohunga (Māori Experts) would look to the Matariki star cluster to find out how abundant the upcoming year’s harvest would be. Bright, clear stars promised a warm and successful season. Hazy stars, however, warned of cold weather and poor crops.

How is Matariki celebrated?

The twinkling of the Matariki stars in the pre-dawn sky heralds a special celebration for young and old. Across New Zealand, people come together to remember their ancestors, share food, sing, tell stories, and play music.

Matariki festivities highlight the tangata whenua view of the world. They remind us of the cycle of life and natural ways of marking the passing of time.

Remembrance

Matariki, as a marker of transition, was a natural time for families to mourn and honour those who had passed away in the previous year. These loved ones were believed to have transformed into stars – te hunga kua whetūrangitia – shining down from the heavens.

How can I participate in this phase of Matariki?

• The setting of Matariki is a time for mindfulness, reflection and preparing for the cold months ahead.
• The year’s harvests are complete, the pātaka (pantry/larder/food store) is full and the woodshed well stocked to keep the whare (home) adequately fuelled through winter.
• It’s a time for winding down and keeping warm by the fire. Make the most of this time with your loved ones. Share ideas, wānanga/learn together or get creative with artistic pursuits and other indoor activities.

No matter how your family choose to celebrate this time - enjoy it and stay safe!