Celebrating Matariki as a Whānau
Matariki marks the Māori New Year and the reappearance of the Matariki star cluster in our winter skies. For many, it's a time to pause and reflect on the year that's been, remember those who have passed, celebrate the present, and look ahead with hope for the future.
It's also a beautiful opportunity to slow down and spend intentional time together as a whānau. Whether that's sharing kai, learning something new, getting outside, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the season we're in, there are so many meaningful ways to celebrate Matariki with tamariki.
Reflect on the year that's been
Matariki invites us to pause and reflect. To look back on where we've come from, celebrate where we are now, and think about where we're heading.
As parents, it's easy to spend so much time focused on what's still challenging that we miss just how much growth has happened along the way.
Gather together as a whānau over a little bit of kai and ask:
- What are you proud of from the past year?
- What have you learnt?
- How have you grown?
Fill your home with waiata
During this time of year, one simple but fun way to celebrate Matariki is by making the Loopy Tunes Matariki album the soundtrack to your days. Pop it on during the morning school run, while getting ready for the day, or around the house on a quiet Saturday morning.
With 13 Matariki-inspired tunes for younger tamariki, the album introduces each of the nine whetū (stars) and helps children learn about the season through music and play.
They're honestly such gorgeous waiata.
Go stargazing together
Take some time as a whānau to head outside before dawn and see if you can spot the Matariki cluster for yourselves.
Even if the weather doesn't cooperate, the simple act of wrapping up warm, standing together under the stars, and talking about the stories behind them can become a special family tradition.
We love the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa video below to help you know what you're looking for.
Find a Matariki event in your community
Many communities across Aotearoa host Matariki festivals, celebrations, and cultural events throughout the season.
They're a wonderful opportunity for whānau to come together, connect with others, experience local traditions, and be part of something bigger than themselves while celebrating this special time of year.
Learn about the nine whetū (stars) of Matariki
One of the most meaningful ways to celebrate Matariki is to go beyond simply marking the occasion and spend some time learning about the stories and values connected to each of the nine whetū.
Each star has its own significance, reminding us of our connection to each other, to those who have gone before us, and to the natural world around us. Exploring these meanings with tamariki can spark wonderful conversations about gratitude, caring for our environment, remembering loved ones, and dreaming about the future.
The nine whetū are:
- Matariki – Reflection, hope, and the connection, health, and wellbeing of people and our taiao (environment).
- Pōhutukawa – Remembering those who have passed away during the past year.
- Waitī – Freshwater and the kai sources sustained by rivers, streams, and lakes.
- Waitā – The moana and the food sources found within it.
- Waipuna-ā-Rangi – Rain and the waters that fall from the sky.
- Tupu-ā-Nuku – Everything that grows in the soil to be harvested or gathered for kai.
- Tupu-ā-Rangi – Everything that grows in the trees, including fruits, berries, and birds.
- Ururangi – The winds and the weather that shape our environment.
- Hiwa-i-te-Rangi – Our hopes, dreams, aspirations, and the wishes we hold for the year ahead.
If you'd like to learn more together, here's a video we love that's perfect for both adults and tamariki wanting to deepen their understanding of Matariki.