Matariki - Maori New Year

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Matariki is the Māori name for the constellation of stars that are often known in other cultures as the Pleiades or the Seven Sisters.

 

Matariki may be translated as mata riki – tiny eyes, or as mata Ariki – eyes of God. These eyes are thought to watch over the land and it’s people.

 

There are many Māori beliefs regarding Matariki in relation to its cultural significance. Some iwi believe Matariki is a mother surrounded by her six daughters.

 

Matariki was used as a navigational star. It was also thought to herald what the new year might have in store, as its physical appearance when it arose was thought to signify whether or not the following year would be prosperous. This celestial configuration announces the changing of the seasons, the coming of the cold and indicates an ideal time to plan for planting.

Traditionally by the time of the ascension of Matariki, food crops had been harvested and the storehouses would be well stocked. Hākari or feasts were common. Other food gathering activities would cease. Communities would be able to participate in celebrations with a focus on activities related to learning and the arts, with weaving, singing and performing, wānanga and the learning of whakapapa being some examples. Nowadays Matariki has become a time to celebrate the revitalisation and resurgence of Te Reo Māori and other traditional Māori knowledge.

Matariki was also an important time to mourn and remember those who had passed away.

The yearly reappearance of Matariki signifies a time to prepare, to share ideas, to remember the past and celebrate the future.

 

Matariki can be a time of change, and growth. During Matariki we acknowledge what we have and what we have to give. It's a celebration of culture,language, spirit and people, of our past, present and looking to the future.

Each year, many communities come together to remember those who have passed, and to

celebrate those who are to come.

 

The Japanese call these Seven Sisters 'Subaru' - if you look at the logo of the company

Subaru, you'll see a stylised symbol of the Seven Sisters, as ancient mythology meets modern industry. We have noticed that there are only 6 stars on the subaru logo!

Making kites for Matariki

To celebrate Matariki our class made Maori kites.

First we had to draw koru patterns with black crayons.
 Then we had to draw a white outline around the black crayon. After that we dyed the background of the kites. Then we dyed the koru patterns a different colour. Then we let the dye dry. After that we made a frame out of green sticks. We then cut the bottom of the kite. Then we glued the flappy parts on the back of the kite. We then sellotaped the streamers on. Yay we have done the kites.