Matariki
Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades star cluster, which in many cultures is referred to as the Seven Sisters. However, in Māori tradition, Matariki is more than just a star cluster; it marks the beginning of the Māori New Year. Here are detailed aspects of Matariki:
Significance
Matariki signifies the start of the Māori New Year. Its rising in late May or early June in the pre-dawn sky in the Southern Hemisphere heralds the arrival of the colder months and is a time for remembering those who have passed, celebrating new life, and looking forward to the future. It's a time of reflection, celebration, and planning.
History and Cultural Context
- Origins: The tradition of recognizing Matariki as the New Year comes from ancient Polynesian voyagers who used the stars for navigation. The knowledge of Matariki was brought to Aotearoa (New Zealand) by these early settlers.
- Ceremonies: During Matariki, various ceremonies are held including feasts (hākari), where families and communities come together. Traditional foods like kumara (sweet potato), fish, and birds are prepared.
- Stars: Each star in the Matariki cluster has its own significance:
- Matariki (Pleiades) - the star of the eyes of the gods, indicating health and wellbeing
- Pohutukawa - the star associated with food and harvest
- Waiti - the star representing fresh water
- Waita - the star representing the ocean
- Waipuna-a-rangi - the star representing rain
- Ururangi
- Hiwa-i-te-rangi - the star of abundance, representing the promise of a prosperous year ahead
Modern Celebrations
In recent years, Matariki has seen a revival and is increasingly recognized as a public holiday in New Zealand. Activities include:
- Public events like festivals, concerts, and educational programs.
- Workshops on traditional crafts, food preparation, and storytelling.
- Community gatherings where people share food, sing, and perform traditional dances.
Legislation
In 2020, New Zealand's parliament passed the Matariki Public Holiday Bill, officially recognizing Matariki as a public holiday to be observed on the Friday closest to the rise of Matariki.
External Sources:
Related Topics: