MAORI NEW YEAR IN NZ (MAORI TRANSLATION "MATARIKI IN AOTEAROA")

Kristi Neighbourly Lead from Tikipunga

Matariki, the Māori New Year, is typically marked by the rise of the Matariki star cluster and the sighting of the next new moon. Some iwi observe the rise of the lone star Puaka as the beginning of the new year.

In 2020, the Matariki cluster has set on 15 May and will return from 13–16 July. The Matariki period is 13–20 July.

Matariki Stars

Matariki is the Māori name for a group of stars that are also known as the Pleiades star cluster.

The physical appearance of Matariki in the sky was traditionally used by a tohunga (a priest or expert) as a forecast of the year ahead. Clear and bright stars signalled warm and productive seasons, and hazy or shimmering clusters meant a cold winter was coming and ground for crops was prepared accordingly.

Each iwi has their own stories and perspectives about Matariki and celebrate Matariki at different times. Some hold festivities when Matariki is first seen in the dawn sky; others celebrate after the rise of the full moon or at the beginning of the next new moon.

Today Matariki is generally seen as an important time to celebrate the earth and show respect for the land. It is also a time to acknowledge those who have passed away and to plan for the year ahead.

Matariki is a good opportunity for all New Zealanders to come together with Māori communities to learn their stories, culture, and language.Matariki Resources:
nzcurriculum.tki.org.nz....