Embrace Matariki: The Māori New Year of Unity, Traditions, and Renewal

Matariki Kāinga Hokia  calls you home, beckons us to reconnect with our roots and find a sense of belonging. Friday 14th July 2023, our 2nd national public holiday, here is how I honoured passed loved ones. 

We have just celebrated the reappearance of a group of stars known as Matariki. These stars, also called the Pleiades or the Seven Sisters in Greek and other English-speaking countries, hold significance across various cultures. 

References to this star cluster date back centuries in Chinese and Greek literature. The Pleiades' association with the new year can be traced to early agricultural practices in South East Asia, India, and Mesopotamia. It is intertwined with the ancestral heritage from which both Celts and Māori are believed to have evolved thousands of years ago.

The Vikings referred to them as Freyja's hens, while in Hawaiian, they are known as Makali'i, meaning "eyes of royalty." In Japan, they are called Subaru, meaning "gathered together," while in China, they represent the head of the white tiger. In India, they are known as Krittika.

Are there other reasons for its significance?
The answer lies in the stars themselves. The Pleiades, known as Matariki to Māori, hold profound meaning across various cultures. 

Why is it so important?
I believe, lies in the Pleiades' proximity to the horizon. Constellations high in the sky, like the Southern Cross or the Great Bear, remain exclusive to one hemisphere. The constellation positioned low in the sky wanders between hemispheres, appearing first in one and then the other. A Māori whakataukī, "Matariki kainga kore," captures the essence of the Pleiades—Matariki is a wanderer. And like all wanderers, its comings and goings are observed.

The Pleiades looks like sparkling gems in the night sky. It's no wonder that cultures worldwide associate the Pleiades' disappearance and return with significant seasonal transitions, such as planting, fishing, or harvest. 

This constellation is the dwelling place of gods and ancestors. When Matariki vanishes, it feels as though its loving presence has been lost. Yet, when it reemerges, the guidance of the gods and ancestors is restored. The ancient Greeks shared this sentiment, as Hesiod advised seafarers to remain on land when the Pleiades disappeared, as their protection was withdrawn. 

This constellation becomes an archetype of loss, return, longing, and reunion—a pattern ingrained in the human soul across cultures.

In Aotearoa, New Zealand 
The return of Matariki marks a turning point, the beginning of a new year, and a fresh start. It occurs after the winter equinox, the shortest day, signifying the lengthening of days and the arrival of spring. It's a time when we can reflect on various aspects of our lives.

In European traditions, the winter solstice around June 22 signifies this turning point. The connection becomes apparent when we adjust our seasonal calendar to the southern hemisphere. Likewise, in Te Ao Māori, Matariki ushers in a new year. Both festivals occur after the harvest and represent the quiet commencement of a new cycle—a natural moment to pause and begin anew. 

Reflection
In celebrating Matariki, it may be fruitful to reflect on what is returning for you at this time. 

What aspect of your life has been lost and found again?

•  Is it your spiritual connection, the longing to remember and reconnect with the greater dimension of life? 
• Or is it the guidance and wisdom of your beloved ancestors who have passed on? 

​Passed Loved Ones
Matariki Hunga Nui, or Remembrance, offers an opportunity to honour and remember those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki. This was my first Matariki ceremony.

I planted a tree in our garden to remember and honour Brian, a wonderful and much-loved man who was very special to my husband, Rob.

It was a simple ceremony now with beautiful living visual reminder.

The tree I planted is called "Moas toes"  (Pseudopanax lessonii). It is native to New Zealand with unique leathery leaves that strongly resemble the toes of the moa, (an extinct bird). These leaves are deep green and have a beautiful purple-red margin. 

It is planted opposite my "Angel Dickason Tree", remembering the three children who were tragically murdered next door. ​

Matariki Ahunga Nui
Celebrating the Present, calls us to come together and express gratitude for what we have. It's a time of gathering, acknowledging our blessings, and finding joy in the present moment.

Matariki Manako Nui
Looking to the Future, invites us to embrace the promise of a new year. It's a time to set intentions, make plans, and envision the possibilities that lie ahead.

Matariki Kāinga Hokia or Matariki, calls you home, beckons us to reconnect with our roots and find a sense of belonging. It's a time to unite as a community, celebrate our shared heritage, and nurture the bonds that make us who we are.

As Matariki graces our skies once again, it invites us to pause, reflect, and celebrate. It's a time for remembrance, gratitude, and hope—a time to embrace the past, cherish the present, and embrace the future. 

I would love to hear how you celebrated.
Love Jade x