Matariki

The name Matariki is thought to come from the name "Ngā Mata o te Ariki Tawhirimātea", which means "the eyes of the god Tawhirimātea". The name comes from the origin story of the star cluster, which occurred after the separation of Ranginui and Papatuānuku. The rising of the Matariki constellation above the horizon in the early morning in June / July each year marks the start of the Māori new year.

Matariki has many purposes, including:

• Honoring the dead: A time to remember and release the spirits of those who have passed away

• Celebrating the harvest: A time to give thanks for the bounty of the land and sea

• Guiding planting and harvesting: The stars were used to determine the best time to plant crops

• Navigating the oceans: The stars were used to guide navigators across the oceans

The celebration of Matariki declined in the 20th century due to European influence, but has seen a revival in recent decades. In 2022, Matariki was first celebrated as an official public holiday.

The dates for Matariki vary by tribe and geography, but it usually takes place in mid-winter from late May to early July. The best time to view the Matariki cluster is early morning, just before dawn.