Sunday 17 June 2012

                                    matarikim

Matariki, the Maori New Year

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

Matariki is a small but distinctive star cluster known as the Pleiades star cluster or 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 21 June 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 a time to plant trees and winter crops. A time of new beginnings and reflection.


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


HAPPY MATARIKI





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2 comments:

  1. the marsh family18 June 2012 at 22:34

    Thanks Mrs Foster,we will do.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Mac's Family20 June 2012 at 18:23

    The Matariki biscuits that came home were very yummy. Thank you for our afternoon tea!

    ReplyDelete

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