Matariki, the Maori New Year  

Once a year in the winter sky just before dawn, Matariki (the Pleiades) signals the start of the Maori New Year.

Matariki is a small but distinctive star cluster known as the Pleiades star cluster of the seven sisters whose appearance in the north eastern pre-dawn sky in late May, early June marks the start of a new phase of life.

This year on the 10th June (Pipiri) the Matariki star cluster rises into our skies signalling the beginning of a month of celebration.

During Matariki we acknowledge what we have and what we have to give. Matariki celebrates the diversity of life. It's a celebration of culture, language spirit and people.

Matariki is our Aotearoa Pacific New Year.

Matariki is a time for making special things for family and friends - share a meal, share family stories, learn about the stars.

Matariki is time to plant trees and winter crops. A time of new beginnings and reflection.

Have a look at the stars next week and see if you can find the 7 stars of Matariki



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