Reading Time: 3 Minutes
Matariki marks the start of the Māori New Year and at its core, this special occasion encourages one to remember the lost, celebrate the present, and look to the future.
Matariki is signified by a cluster of stars that appear once a year. This winter, Matariki will re-appear in the skies above Aotearoa from the 19th–22th of June. This reappearance contains hundreds of stars but only nine are visible to the naked eye. Each star represents a significance in Māori culture and the unique characteristics have been honoured by Māori for centuries.
The Matariki public holiday it is a time for;
Here are some ways you can celebrate and acknowledge the Māori new year with your whānau this week!
Cast your vision sky high with ‘Tiro ki Tua’ a visual installation that immerses you within unique interconnected ecologies abundant in Aotearoa. Just as Matariki signals us to look ahead to the new year, this installation encourages you to look upwards to gaze into the night sky.
With a strong emphasis on whānau and kai, what better way to celebrate than by spending time with your tamariki, teaching them how to plant and source their kai from the earth? The Warehouse offers a wide variety of seeds to choose from, making it a personalised and memorable experience.
McGregor's Marathon Hybrid Broccoli Vegetable Seeds, available at The Warehouse
Curious about Matariki? This book is the perfect starting point, answering all your questions and helping you connect more deeply with the celebration.
Matariki- The Star of the Year by Rangi Matamua, available at RUBY
Matariki is all about spending meaningful time with your whānau. Get involved with your tamariki this week through fun, Matariki-inspired activities.
Curious Kiwi Matariki Puzzle Double Sided, available at Whitcoulls
Gathering with loved ones for kai is a special part of Matariki celebrations. As kaimoana plays a significant role in the Māori diet, why not mark the occasion with New York Grill’s Oyster Happy Hour? Enjoy freshly shucked oysters for just $2.50 each, available daily from 3–5pm.
Take a moment to reflect. Look back on the past 12 months and journal everything you’ve achieved over the last 365 days. It’s the perfect opportunity to realign your goals and set your intentions for the months ahead.
No Matariki feast is complete without Māori fry bread. If you’ve ever tried paraoa parai, you’ll know just how delicious these golden pillows can be. Impress your whānau and give this recipe from New World a go! Click here for the recipe.
Whatever way you wish to celebrate Matariki this year, let it be full of kai, aroha and whānau time.
For more news and culture, click here
