4. What is Matariki/
Matariki is the Maori name for a open
cluster of very bright stars that can be seen
in June of every year in New Zealand. Of
the many stars and constellations that act as
milestones in the traditional Maori calendar
– Matariki or the Maori New Year is one of
the most important.
5. When is the Maori New Year?
It is marked by the rising of Matariki
and the sighting of the next new moon.
The pre-dawn rise of Matariki can be
seen in the last few days of May every
year and the new year is marked at the
sighting of the next new moon which
occurs in June. The new moon can be
seen for the first time on June 24 2009.
6. What does Matariki mean?
There are two meanings and both of
them refer to a tiny constellation of
stars.
Mata Riki – meaning Tiny
Eyes
` Mata Ariki - meaning Eyes of
God.
7. Why is Matariki important?
According to tradition, depending of
how visible Matariki is was thought to
determine the coming season’s crop.
How bright the stars were would
indicate how warm the season would be
and hopefully a more productive crop
Also it was seen as an important time
for family to gather together and reflect
on both the past and the future.
8. How is Matariki celebrated?
Matariki is celebrated in a number
of ways with education,
remembrance and the planting of
new trees and crops signalling a
new beginnings.
Who celebrates Matariki?
Anyone who wishes to participate.
9. `How to see Matariki.
You have to get up about an hour before the sun
begins to rise. You need to be looking at the
north eastern horizon. If you follow the line of
Orion’s Belt down to the left, through the bright
triangle of stars that form part of Taurus you
will see Matariki as a group of twinkling lights.
You can either see Matariki with just your eyes
but if you have a telescope or binoculars you
will get an even better view of the main stars.
10. Why do we celebrate Matariki
today?
The celebration of Matariki
today means celebrating the
unique place in which we live
and giving respect to the land
we live on.
