In this edition of Te Ngira we celebrate Matariki - the beginning of the Māori New Year. Traditionally, Matariki also signifies a new cycle of life and acknowledging where we come from, so in this edition we have included articles that extend upon this theme. Matariki is also a good time to reflect on your place in the world, to revive old skills, set new goals and reflect on the previous year.

Matariki is the Māori name for the small cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades or the Seven Sisters, in the Taurus constellation. Matariki literally means the ‘eyes of god’ (mata ariki) or ‘little eyes’ (mata riki).

Some say that when Ranginui, and Papatūānuku, were separated by their children, Tāwhirimātea, became angry, tearing out his eyes and hurling them into the heavens. Others say Matariki is the mother surrounded by her six daughters, Tupu-ā-nuku, Tupu-ā-rangi, Waitī, Waitā, Waipuna-ā-rangi and Ururangi. One version explains that Matariki and her daughters appear to assist Te Rā, whose winter journey from the north left him weakened.

Although there are tribal differences regarding the timing of Matariki, celebrations most often begin at the next new moon after Matariki has risen. The exact timing varies from year to year but usually occurs during the month of June. This year the next new moon officially occurred on 16 June 2010. Some Northern Hemisphere groups celebrate the winter solstice at this time of the year when the sun, drifting north on the shortest day in winter, reaches the north-eastern end of the horizon, the sun then turns around and begins its journey south. The revival of authentic Polynesian celebrations of Matariki should not be confused or contaminated by other pagan occult festivals.

The timing of Matariki’s rising and the particular Māori celebration is unique to Aotearoa. However, the Matariki cluster can be seen from many parts of the world where it is known by several other names including Pleiades, Seven Sisters, Subaru and Messier 45. Matariki is also recognised by navigators throughout Te Moana Nui a Kiwa as an important astronomical sign that the weather was now safe for long voyages.

The celebration of Matariki is for all New Zealanders to embrace, share and enjoy. Matariki can be celebrated and interpreted in different ways. So, what does Matariki mean to you and your whānau? How can you incorporate Matariki celebrations into your own life, home, school or workplace?