Matariki is a season.

That’s how we celebrate in our home and that’s the essence of what I was taught. A festive season with important themes. I’m proud that Matariki is recognised as a national day, and I hope it brings connection, reverence, celebration to many, and continues to deepen knowledge around te Ao Maori, mine included.

Our own connection to Matariki begins in Pipiri / June. We bring in little rituals to acknowledge this special time – waiata, weaving, time together, sharing kai, planting, lantern making and walks, sharing stories, remembrance. Remembering goodbyes that saw love return to the stars. I look to the starry skies with awe and ponder such vastness.

Heralding a new year

Beginning the new year in winter months clicks with me. It’s how it is done in the northern hemisphere.

Days cool, nature draws in, drops leaves, conserving energy through these cooler days. The light grows less, until the solstice, then the light grows again. There’s magic in this time of embracing light and dark. I love the spiral inward, time for rest and reflection, from where planning and action can spring forth.

Matariki is near this solstice time, but instead of observing the sun, it follows the maramataka, the moon calendar, observed by the stars and the moon.

The cluster of stars, rises in midwinter and for many Māori, heralds the start of the new year.
The 9 stars of Matariki each reflect elements of nature and being. Traditionally they are looked upon look for insight into the year ahead.
Insight that was crucial when we relied upon the seasons to guide and work with the land and sea. I’ve yet to learn to read the stars but nonetheless, taking time to reflect on the source of things is an important value in my life and one lost in our modern society of conveniences.

My children surely roll their eyes but I continue to bring them to consider them where things come from, to be mindful, and learn to be thankful.
Because we still need to work with the land and sea. Or what world will there’s be?

Matariki public holiday

Matariki weekend was lovely. I’ve seen Matariki, high in the sky already, dawn wakings peeking outside through comfortable cosy windows.

BUT we roused the kids at 5am, begrudgingly bundled from their beds to snug jackets, and ventured to the beach for stargazing and togetherness and stories and breakfast. And they saw Matariki with their own eyes. Simple and meaningful is best when celebrating Matariki. They explored nature. They loved it. And they will remember these simple, memorable moments, as will  I.

Matariki resources

There are some amazing resources to deepen learning around Matariki.
Check these out:

• Official Matariki website
• Ministry of Education Matariki resources
• Te Papa Matariki resources
• Te Wananga o Aotearoa Matariki resources
• Paitu illustrated seasonal calendar feat. Matariki

Mānawatia a Matariki xx

Paitu’s perpetual seasonal calendar