Matariki
Mānawatia a Matariki
“Mānawatia a Matariki” is a Māori phrase that translates to “accept, receive, or welcome Matariki.” It’s a greeting used to acknowledge the Māori New Year and the rising of the Matariki star cluster, which marks the beginning of the Māori New Year in Aotearoa (New Zealand). It’s a time for reflection, remembrance, and looking forward with hope.
Our school had an incredible celebration last Wednesday as they celebrated Matariki and all the learning that’s been going on across the kura. The evening kicked off with Mau Rākau, a traditional Māori martial art, that our senior students led themselves, showing us their discipline and skill. They have been working with Matua Damien this term and their display was really impressive. This was followed by our Senior Kapa Haka, who sang a variety of waiata including "Matariki e Ara e", and performed "Tahu Pōtiki". Their performance was absolutely stunning and showed the time and effort they’ve put in. Lastly our amazing Juniors stood up and performed. We have a huge junior Kapa Haka (150!) and they bring so much passion and excitement to their performances.
One of the best moments of the night was seeing tuakana teina (older supporting younger) in action. Our senior students were incredible, guiding and supporting our junior Kapa Haka as they sang a waiata and even gave a haka (traditional dance) a go! It was so cool to see our younger tamariki standing tall and giving it heaps, with huge smiles and a fierce pukana.
The art displays were āatahua (beautiful). From colourful squashed can art, to bright and beautiful manu tukutuku (kites) and glowing lanterns. Each piece told a story and added to the magic of the night. The creativity and thought behind each project was amazing.
Ngā mihi nui to all the staff, students and whānau who helped make the evening such a success.
Manawatia a Matariki! ✨
Kupu/ Glossary
pukana - fierce form of facial expression
haka - a traditional dance
tuakana teina - younger students supporting older
waiata - song
Aorearoa - New Zealand
kura - school
Matariki - Māori New Year
Manawatia a Matariki - celebrate or embrace Matariki
manu tukutuku - kites
Matua - male teacher
Mau Rakau - a traditional Māori martial art
Kapa Haka - traditional Māori performing arts
whānau - families
