Matariki is the Māori name for the star cluster known as Pleiades. The full name is “Ngā mata a te Ariki Tawhirimātea – the eyes of the God Tawhirimātea”. Matariki, the Māori New Year, means ‘tiny eyes’ or ‘eyes of god’ and is celebrated in June or July when a small group of stars called Pleiades rises above the horizon, bringing the old year to a close and starting a new year. Māori name the seven stars of Matariki constellation the Seven Sisters or a Mother and six Daughters.

According to myth, when Ranginui, the sky father, and Papatūānuku, the earth mother, were separated by their children, the god of the winds, Tāwhirimātea, became so angry that he tore out his eyes and threw them into the heavens.

Traditionally, Matariki was a time to finish storing food for the winter, weave new clothing and baskets, listen to the stories of our ancestors, and learn about the natural world.

Nowadays, New Zealanders are more likely to get together with family and friends, talk about Māori myths and culture, look at the stars through telescopes, and watch kapa haka performances. Matariki is also seen as an important time to celebrate the earth, and show respect for the land on which we live.

This year Matariki will be celebrated from the 13-20 July.