Nayland College staff and students are working away behind the scenes preparing to celebrate Matariki. Here is some background information about Matariki.

What is Matariki?

Matariki is the Māori name for the star cluster also known as the Pleiades. While it comprises over 300 stars, only seven are typically seen. In the last few days of May we can observe Matariki rise in the north-eastern horizon just before dawn. The first new moon following the rise of Matariki is called “Te Tahi a Pipiri” or the first day of Pipiri, New Year’s Day.

Meaning of Matariki

Traditionally, the appearance of Matariki was the time to ensure food crops had been harvested and storehouses well stocked for the coming year. Matariki was a season for manaakitanga (hospitality) that brought communities together. Visitors were showered with gifts of specially preserved food and other delicacies. Throughout Matariki, Māori learnt from each other, which ensured that traditions like arts, weaving, waiata, performances, wānanga and whakapapa were passed from one generation to the next.

Our Place, Our Stories

Matariki is an opportunity to discuss and acknowledge “our place and our stories” and how they exist in Te Ao Māori.

Matariki Today

Nowadays Matariki is typically about the revitalisation and resurgence of te reo Māori and mātauranga Māori traditions. While few Māori live in what is considered a traditional Māori setting, we still carry on the rituals of gathering to reflect upon the past year, share experiences, plan activities and acknowledge those who have passed during the year.

Matariki – The Indicator

Māori astronomical understanding was entrenched in pre-colonial Māori life, culture and belief. The sun, moon and stars were an essential part of practices affecting agriculture, fishing, architecture and exploration. Tohunga Māori (specialist men and women) with knowledge of the stars valued the importance of Matariki as an indicator of the seasons, a foreteller of the weather and a navigational beacon for Pacific Ocean travellers.

Matariki Festivals

There are many ways you can celebrate Matariki. One of those is to join our fantastic events and start your own family traditions, which in turn help to celebrate our place and tell our stories.

Nelson’s Matariki Festival will take place in Founders Heritage Park on July 3. From 4pm to 8pm enjoy a variety of stalls selling food and drink and Māori arts and crafts, entertainment from kapa haka groups, a performance from singer-songwriter Sianne Dougherty (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Tūwharetoa), and a fireworks display at 7pm. Visit: our.nelson.govt.nz for more information.