Māori have observed the stars for centuries. Star knowledge (tātai arorangi) guided navigation, marked seasons for planting and harvesting, and connected people to their ancestors and the cosmos. The stars are part of whakapapa.
Matariki is a cluster of stars (the Pleiades). When they rise in mid-winter (late June/July), they mark the Māori New Year. Each star has special significance:
The mother star; signifies reflection, hope, connection to those lost
Connects to those who have died; remembrance
Fresh water; rivers, lakes, creatures within
Salt water; the ocean and seafood
Rain and water that falls from sky
Food grown in the ground; kūmara, potatoes
Food from above; birds, berries in trees
Winds; connects to weather patterns
Wishes and aspirations for the new year
Matariki became a public holiday in Aotearoa in 2022!
On a clear night (best in winter):
Hiwa-i-te-rangi is the star of wishes. Write three wishes for the coming year:
My Matariki wishes: