Reading: Matariki and a New Year

Each winter, a group of stars becomes visible in the early morning sky over Aotearoa New Zealand. The cluster is known as Matariki. Its rising marks the Māori New Year, a time for remembering, gathering and thinking about the months ahead. Matariki is also the name of one star in the cluster. In many iwi traditions, she is connected with the wellbeing of people. Other stars are associated with different parts of the natural world: Waitī with fresh water, Waitā with the ocean, and Ururangi with the winds. Some iwi include Hiwa-i-te-rangi, a star linked with hopes for the future. The names and traditions connected with the stars are not exactly the same in every iwi. For generations, people have watched the stars as part of seasonal knowledge. Their appearance could be used to consider what conditions might lie ahead. This knowledge helped communities prepare for the year, including planning around food and the changing seasons. Matariki is celebrated in different ways today. People may share a meal, attend a local gathering, plant trees or take part in performances. Families and communities also tell stories, sing waiata and remember people who have died. These activities bring together older and younger generations. The celebration can also be a chance to set intentions. A person might choose a skill to practise or a goal to work towards during the coming year. Schools, libraries and community groups may offer activities that explore Māori stories and knowledge. Matariki connects the past, the present and the future. By looking after relationships, sharing food and learning about the natural world, people can take part in a season of reflection and renewal. Word help: iwi means a Māori people or tribe; waiata are songs; intentions are plans or aims.