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Matariki: My Identity Star

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Matariki: My Identity Star

Read the short text, then complete each activity. Use the kupu Māori in your answers where you can. Matariki traditions and star names can vary between iwi; this worksheet introduces one set of meanings.

He kōrero mō Matariki | A text about Matariki

Matariki is the Māori name for the star cluster also known as the Pleiades. Its appearance in the midwinter sky marks the Māori New Year for many iwi. It is a time to remember people who have died, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the future. Matariki is also the name of one star in the cluster. In one set of teachings, Matariki is connected with wellbeing and bringing people together. Tupuānuku is connected with food grown in the earth, while Tupuārangi is connected with food from above the earth, such as fruit and birds. Waitī is connected with fresh water, and Waitā with the ocean. People may gather with whānau, share kai, tell stories, and set hopes for the year ahead.

1.Choose the best summary of the text. What does Matariki mark for many iwi?

The Māori New Year, a time to remember, celebrate and look ahead
The beginning of summer holidays
A celebration only about ocean fishing

2.Match each star with the meaning given in the text.

Tupuānuku
Tupuārangi
Waitī
Waitā

The ocean
Food grown in the earth
Food from above the earth
Fresh water

3.True or false: Matariki is both the name of the star cluster and the name of one star in it.

TrueFalse

4.Complete the sentence with the correct kupu: is connected with wellbeing and bringing people together.

5.Why might people gather with whānau and share kai during Matariki? Give one idea supported by the text.

6.The text says Matariki is a time to remember, celebrate and look ahead. Which part of this idea connects most with setting hopes for the future?

Tōku whetū | My star

An identity star can show qualities, interests, connections and hopes that are important to you. You can share only what feels comfortable. Use the star space to plan your ideas.

7.Choose two qualities that you would like your identity star to show, then write them here. Examples: kind, creative, brave, helpful, curious.

8.Name one person, place, activity or part of nature that is important to you. Explain briefly why it belongs on your identity star.

Draw a star and add words or small pictures to show two qualities, one important connection, and one hope for the year ahead. You may use English, te reo Māori, or both.

9.Suggest one respectful way you could celebrate Matariki with others. Explain how your idea could help people connect, remember, or look ahead.