Manawatia a Matariki

What is Matariki

Details Matariki is one of our closest star clusters; in the constellation of Taurus. It appears bluish white in the morning sky.
The hazy light connecting the stars is the nebula Merope passing through. Other names: Pleiades,The Seven Sisters, Subaru, Mao, Krittika.

Matariki represents an important cultural and spiritual event in Māori tradition and marks the beginning of the Māori New Year. A time of reflection, celebration and the coming together of communities to honour the past and prepare for the future.

Matariki is a time to reflect on our past, honour our ancestors and to prepare for the future. It represents our connection to the cycles of nature and the connection between the earth and the sky (Papatūānuku and Ranginui). It holds deep spiritual and symbolic significance, reminding us of the importance of friendship, sustainability and the interdependence of all living things.

Matariki is a time of renewal, gratitude and setting intentions for the upcoming year.

Why is it called Matariki

Details Matariki gets its name from the phrase ‘Ngā mata o te ariki Tāwhirimatea’. Or Mata-ariki, meaning ‘the eyes of the god’ Tāwhirimātea.

The name finds its beginnings in the story of Ranginui and Papatūānuku. After Tāne separated his parents, the sky from the earth, Tāwhirimātea waged war against him and the other gods, for the separation and he battled with all his brothers until he was defeated by Tūmatauenga, the Māori god of warfare and mankind. In a display of love for his parents and rage against his brother,
Tāwhirimātea ripped out his eyes, crushed them between his hands and threw them towards the sky where they stuck to his fathers chest and became the stars of Matariki.

M2.86 (Brightest) Matariki / Alcyone (female)

Details Matariki is the central & brightest star. She is the mother or guardian star, holding the cluster together as she guides her 8 children throughout the cosmos. Matariki encompasses our overall wellbeing and the flourishing of people and communities. It emphasises the connection between nature, culture and personal growth.

M5.64 (Dimmest) Pōhutakawa / Asterope (female)

Details Is the eldest child of Matariki and is connected to those who have passed on, in particular those that have passed since the last rising of Matariki. To honour the memories of all who have passed, as well as our tūpuna (ancestors). Speak the names of your past loved ones to Pōhutakawa and she will protect and carry them into the heavens and lead them along the pathway of spirits to release them as stars within the skies.

M5.09 Tupu-ā-nuku / Pleione (female)

Details Holds significance in Matariki celebrations for its association with the earth and the soil. It represents the food provided by the land, our crops and vegetables. Agriculture, farming and the abundance of food sources. The nurturing and cultivation of crops, the connection to land and sustainable practices. We thank Tupuānuku for the harvest during celebrations.

M3.62 Tupu-ā-rangi / Atlas (male)

Details In Māori culture, the harvest and availability of food hold immense significance. Tupuārangi’s association with food in Matariki symbolises the prosperity, sustenance and gratitude for the gifts provided. It signifies the abundance and flourishing of crops during the harvest season. Our forests, trees, berries and birds that are provided from above our heads.

M3.86 Waitī / Maia (female)

Details Represents the element of fresh water and embodies the life-giving force of water and its essential role in sustaining all living creatures. Waitī represents the element of fresh water, our rivers, lakes, streams, springs and wetlands. Waitī is often connected to fertility, growth and sustenance, as fresh water is essential for nurturing and sustaining life. Fresh water is a taonga (treasure) that provides nourishment, cleansing, spiritual renewal and reminds us of the importance of preserving and protecting water sources.

M4.29 Waitā / Taygeta (male)

Details Salt water is considered a vital part of the environment and is associated with the life giving properties of the ocean. It sustains marine life and is crucial for the well-being of coastal communities. The twin of Waitī, represents the element of salt water. Our oceans, tides and floodwaters. It represents the food gathered from the seas and its abundance for the year ahead. Waitā calls us to protect the treasures of our coasts and oceans.

M3.70 Waipuna-a-rangi / Electra (female)

Details Represents the element of rain, hail and snow. The “gathering of rain” plays a vital role in the natural world and has significant importance to Māori. It is connected with growth, fertility, cleansing and replenishment of water sources. It plays a crucial role in agricultural cycles and balance of our ecosystems. We look to Waipunarangi for guidance for the new year. Waipuna-a-rangi also gives us rainbows!

M4.17 Ururangi / Merope (male)

Details Plays a special role for tourism. It is associated with the element of air and represents the realm of wind. Ururangi symbolises the guidance and protection of voyagers and travellers. Ururangi reminds us of the bravery and resilience of our ancestors who embarked on epic journeys, exploring new lands and forging connections. It serves as a reminder to honour the spirit of exploration, embrace new experiences and to navigate life and it's challenges with determination and courage. To inspire people to embark on their own personal journeys and seek meaningful connections with others.