The Significance of Matariki
Matariki — the Māori name for the Pleiades star cluster — marks the beginning of the Māori New Year. Its appearance on the horizon in the pre-dawn sky during mid-winter signals a time of reflection, remembrance of those who have passed, and anticipation of the year ahead. Since becoming a public holiday in Aotearoa New Zealand, Matariki has seen a remarkable blossoming of community celebrations across the country.
For the Romangatouhou community, Matariki is one of the most meaningful points in the annual calendar — a time when whānau gather, stories are shared, and the connections between the living, the departed, and the natural world are honoured.
2025 Programme of Events
This year's celebrations span several weeks, with activities designed for all ages and levels of cultural familiarity.
Matariki Star-Gazing Evening
Date: Late June (date to be confirmed based on astronomical conditions)
Location: Marae grounds
Details: Join kaumātua and community members for an evening guided star-gazing session. Kaumātua will share traditional knowledge about Matariki and the individual stars within the cluster, each associated with different aspects of the natural world. Warm drinks provided. Bring a blanket and a sense of wonder.
Matariki Wānanga — Understanding the Stars and Their Stories
Date: To be confirmed
Location: Community hall
Details: A daytime wānanga exploring the mythology, astronomy, and agricultural significance of Matariki. Sessions will be led by experienced cultural practitioners and will include activities for rangatahi. Registration required — places are limited to ensure an intimate learning environment.
Community Hākari (Feast)
Date: Matariki public holiday weekend
Location: Marae
Details: The annual Matariki hākari brings the community together around shared kai (food). Whānau are encouraged to contribute a dish and to come ready to share a memory of someone they have lost. This gathering blends the commemorative and celebratory dimensions of Matariki in a warm, inclusive setting.
Rangatahi Art and Expression Exhibition
Date: Running for two weeks from the public holiday
Location: Community centre foyer
Details: Young people from across the rohe have been invited to submit artwork, poetry, photography, and craft responding to the theme Tipu Ake — Growing Upwards. The exhibition will be open to the public and entries will be judged by a panel of community members and cultural practitioners.
The Nine Stars of Matariki
In recent years, te ao Māori has formalised the recognition of nine stars within the Matariki cluster, each carrying specific significance:
- Matariki — overall health and wellbeing of the environment
- Pōhutukawa — connection to those who have passed
- Tupuānuku — food grown in the ground
- Tupuārangi — food gathered from above (trees, birds)
- Waitī — freshwater environments and their creatures
- Waitā — saltwater environments and their resources
- Waipuna-ā-Rangi — rain and water from above
- Ururangi — winds
- Hiwa-i-te-rangi — aspirations and goal-setting for the new year
How to Stay Informed
Full event details, including confirmed dates and registration links, will be published through this website and distributed via the community newsletter. Whānau are encouraged to register their interest with the project office so they receive direct notification as details are confirmed.
Matariki is for everyone — whether you are deeply connected to te ao Māori or are just beginning to learn. All are welcome to come with open hearts and a willingness to participate.