Celebrating Matariki 2024 at Whitecliffe College!

Ways to celebrate Matariki – Embracing the holiday spirit!

Spirit

Matariki symbolises togetherness. Pipiri (June), the month of Matariki, means ‘to draw close’ because of the cold temperatures. To honour Matariki and its significance, here are some meaningful and enjoyable ways to celebrate:

Share Kai with friends and Whānau

Kai (food) and Manaakitanga (hospitality and generosity) have always been integral to Matariki. The cold weather marked the end of the planting season, a time to gather and enjoy the year's harvest. Discover traditional Māori recipes to enjoy: Matariki Recipes. 

Take time to remember loved ones who have passed away.

The Pohutukawa star that sits amongst the Matariki cluster represents our loved ones who have passed away. Reflecting, sharing memories, and lighting a candle for those no longer physically here are significant parts of celebrating Matariki.

Let go of burdens and focus on moving forward.

“All the things that weren’t done or accomplished during the previous year, anything that you wasted energy on, you put it to sleep so that it no longer bothers you. That’s the first thing you do before you open up the new year,” says Rereata Makiha of Te Māhurehure, Te Aupōuri, and Te Arawa.

Remember those who have passed

The Pohutukawa star in the Matariki cluster represents loved ones who have passed away. Reflecting, sharing memories, and lighting a candle for those no longer with us is a heartfelt way to celebrate Matariki.

Release burdens and look Forward

“All the things that weren’t done or accomplished during the previous year, anything that you wasted energy on, you put it to sleep so that it no longer bothers you. That’s the first thing you do before you open up the new year,” says Rereata Makiha of Te Māhurehure, Te Aupōuri, and Te Arawa.

Gaze at the stars

The best time to observe Matariki is just before dawn, between 6:00 – 7:00 am. Learn how to locate Matariki with this video: How to locate Matariki. Even if Matariki is not visible, spending time under the stars connects you to the celebration.

Participate in an event

Numerous events across Aotearoa celebrate and honour Matariki. Find events suitable for you and your whānau here: Matariki Events.

Learn to say ‘Happy Matariki’ in Te Reo

Curious about how do you say Happy Matariki? The te reo translation is Ngā mihi o Matariki, te tau hou Māori. Practice this phrase in the lead-up to Matariki and use it frequently. Pronunciation doesn’t have to be perfect to be heartfelt! Additionally, the phrase "Manawatia a Matariki," meaning "Celebrate Matariki," is also widely used.

Whitecliffe College’s Matariki Celebrations

To honour Matariki's celebration, Whitecliffe College staff gathered for a shared lunch on 27th June. This lunch symbolises the tradition of sharing the harvest's bounty.

Join us in celebrating Matariki, the weaver of the stars and the weaver of the people. Matariki tuia ngā whetū, tuia ngā tāngata.