Matariki, the M?ori New Year, is a sparkling time in Aotearoa. This celestial festival is all about coming together, reflecting, celebrating, and preparing for the year ahead. As parents, it’s a wonderful chance to create unforgettable memories with your tamariki (children) and educate them about our vibrant culture. Let’s wander through the stars of Matariki and unveil how you can make the most of this special time!

What Is Matariki?

Matariki is the M?ori name for the Pleiades star cluster, which rises in the mid-winter sky, marking the start of the New Year. Each star holds a significant meaning and reminds us of the importance of well-being, togetherness, and the environment. But it’s not just about stargazing! There’s a host of activities that encapsulate the essence of Matariki, and you can embed this deep-rooted tradition in your family’s rhythm of life.

When Is Matariki Celebrated?

The appearance of Matariki varies each year, typically rising in the months of June or July. As it’s determined by the lunar calendar, the exact dates fluctuate. So, it’s like a little surprise from the universe each year, inviting us to look up and celebrate!

Why Is Matariki Important?

Matariki is a cornerstone of M?ori culture, and its importance is mirrored throughout the entire community. It’s a time for growth, reflection, remembrance, and joy. It is a chance to honor those we’ve lost since the last stars rose and to plan for the year ahead. Matariki pulls the community together, weaving one and all into the cultural fabric that is uniquely Kiwi.

Matariki Traditions and How to Engage Your Family

• Stargazing: Wrap up warm, and venture out into the crisp night with your little ones to spot the Matariki cluster. It’s a magical experience that sparks wonder and questions in young minds. What a perfect moment for storytelling and sharing legends!
• Prepare a Feast: Food brings people together, and Matariki is about unity. Cook a traditional Maori hangi or prepare a shared meal as a family. Use this as a teaching moment about where food comes from and the cycle of seasons in Aotearoa.
• Arts and Crafts: Get creative and make artsy representations of stars, waka (canoes), and kites. These crafts are not only fun, they also hold cultural significance and are a medium for learning more about Matariki.
• Planting: Matariki is linked to the planting season. Indulge in gardening activities, and let your kids get their hands dirty. Growing something supports the idea of new beginnings and caring for the earth.

Crafting Memories

The beauty of Matariki lies not only in its traditions but also in the memories you make. Whether it’s through shared stories, laughter around a freshly-cooked hangi, or the simple act of looking up at the stars, these moments become cherished keepsakes that your children will carry with them. Engaging with Matariki is an opportunity to knit your family’s unique story into the vibrant tapestry of New Zealand’s history and culture.

Five Things Parents Should Know in Preparing for Matariki Day

As Matariki approaches, it’s important to plan how you’ll share this special time with your family. Here’s a list to help parents prepare for a fulfilling Matariki celebration:

1. Understanding Matariki: Before the festivities begin, familiarize yourself with the stars of Matariki and their meanings. Share these stories with your children so that they feel connected to the significance behind the celebration.
2. Community Events: Look up local Matariki events and plan which ones you can attend. From cultural performances to public talks, engaging in community activities will deepen your family’s experience of Matariki.
3. Gathering and Sharing: Matariki is the perfect time to gather as a community and share with one another. Consider organizing or participating in a shared meal with friends, family, or neighbors. It’s a tradition that embodies the spirit of Matariki and can make the occasion even more memorable for your children.
4. Reflect and Set Goals: Use this time to reflect as a family on the past year and set goals for the coming year. Involve your children in discussions about aspirations and dreams, mirroring the reflective nature of Matariki.
5. Eco-Friendly Practices: Since Matariki is associated with nature and the environment, try to incorporate eco-friendly practices into your celebrations. Use the opportunity to teach your children about sustainability, such as reducing waste during your family feast or using natural materials in crafts.

By keeping these points in mind, you and your wh?nau will be all set to welcome Matariki with open hearts and a sense of readiness. Let’s continue this joyous cultural journey and infuse our daily lives with the spirit of Matariki, nurturing a connection that lasts well beyond the festivities.