The Matariki

The Matariki

Matariki is the name for a star cluster that includes the star Matariki.

There is 9 stars called Matariki, Waiti, Waita, Tupu-a-nuku, Tupu-a-rangi,

Waipuna-a-rangi, Uru-a-rangi, Hiwa-i-te--rangi, pohutukawa.

The cluster is known by other names around the world one of

these names is the pleiades Matariki is first seen in New Zealand skies

between late May and early June.

This marks the start of the maori new year the timing of celebrations differs

amongst different iwi. Some start Matariki from the rising of the star Matariki.

For other iwi, celebrations are started with the sighting of the star Puanga. The

first full moon after Matariki marks the start of the new year in some areas. Still

others start from the first new moon following Matariki appearance. The cluster

disappears from New Zealand skies during autumn. This signals the time to harvest

crops and fill the storehouses. As such, when Matariki could be seen

once again, stocks would be full and celebrations and feasts could be

held. 

Traditionally, Matariki was a time for whānau to gather together. It was a time to remember and celebrate. It was also a time to share knowledge of the land and traditions. Matariki forms part of the Māori lunar calendar called Maramataka.

The stars were used as a guide to the seasons. If the stars were bright, then
a productive season lay ahead. When this happened, crops would be planted in

September. When the stars were hazy or dim, planting.