WHAT IS MATARIKI?
Te Kāhui o Matariki is a cluster of nine stars that rises in mid-winter, marking the start of the Māori New Year. The celebrations provide an opportunity for whānau and communities to come together, reflect on the past year, and prepare for the year ahead.
The nine stars each represent a different natural living system. They are:
Matariki is the central star within the cluster, the mother star who ensures all the stars rise and fall together. Matariki is linked to the wellbeing and health of people.
Pōhutukawa is the eldest child of Matariki. Pōhutukawa encourages us to reflect on our past and remember and acknowledge loved ones who have passed.
Tipu-ā-nuku represents the soil and food grown in the ground, both cultivated and uncultivated.
Tipu-ā-rangi is food grown above the earth that comes from the sky.
Waitī is connected to freshwater springs, streams, rivers and lakes as well as the plants and animals that live within them.
Waitā connects us to the ocean and food gathered from the sea. Waitā sits below Waitī in the constellation as freshwater flows from the tops of the mountains down and out to the ocean.
Waipuna-a-rangi is the star that connects to the water in our skies, rains and weather patterns.
Hiwai-te-rangi is the youngest child of Matariki and represents aspirations for our future, plans to succeed and grow.
Māori words
tamariki — children
rangatahi — young people
whakangahau — performances
kapa haka — traditional Māori dance and chants
purakau — legends
hangi — food cooked in a pit heated with stones
kai — food
whānau — family
waiata — song
kaupapa — principles
hopori — community
