Section outline

  • Kia ora 7C1 


    Our focus for this week is MATARIKI. Please refer to our Google Classroom for resources.

    Please copy the  following vocabulary into your Global Studies books.


    What is Matariki?

    Matariki is one of the most important Māori celebrations. It signifies the start of the New Year in Māori culture.

    Matariki is the name for a star cluster also known as the Pleiades, that rises in late June or early July. It literally translates in English to the 'eyes of god' or 'little eyes'. 

    Write down 5 facts in your book about  Matariki ?


    When is Matariki?

    In 2022 Matariki will be celebrated on 24 June. 

    How is Matariki celebrated?

    Traditionally, Māori believed if the Matariki stars were very bright in the sky, this signified a warmer season and more fruitful crops for harvest. 

    It was seen as an ideal time for ceremonial offerings to the Māori land-based gods Rongo, Uenuku and Whiro to ensure their crops were healthy for the coming year. Matariki was also seen as an important time for family to gather and reflect on the past and the future.

    Today Matariki celebrates the unique place in which we live and gives respect to the land we live on. This is celebrated through education and remembering whakapapa (ancestry). 

    The planting of new trees and crops is done to represent new beginnings. 

    Celebrations traditionally last up to 3 days after the new moon has risen following the Matariki clusters visibility in the sky.

    What are the Matariki stars called?

    Matariki is a star cluster, not a constellation. The 9 Matariki stars are called: 

    • Hiwa-i-te-rangi
    • Matariki
    • Pohutukawa
    • Tupu-a-nuku
    • Tupu-a-rangi
    • Ururangi
    • Waipuna-a-rangi
    • Waiti
    • Waita

    Please complete the following activity in your Global Studies book:








    During the next 2 weeks, you will select an area of Mariki that you would like to research.
    As discussed in class, using your notetaking skills  you will be researching and presenting your work to the class on  Monday 23 May.

    • The Matariki Celebration: 
    • Hiwa-i-te-rangi 
    • Matariki: 
    • Pohutukawa: 
    • Tupu-a-nuku :
    • Tupu-a-rangi : 
    • Ururangi : 
    • Waipuna-a-rangi : 
    • Waiti : 
    • Waita: 
    • Maori Legend: about Matariki : 

    A reminder that your presentations are due on Monday 23 May.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1s0YcQmb5Q&t=6s

    You need to explain the importance of the star that you have selected and what it represents. Please include images. Each group must complete 3-5 slides.

    Please refer to our Google Classroom for additional resources.