Matariki

Matariki is the Māori name for the Pleiades star cluster, which signals the start of the Māori New Year. While often recognised as seven stars, the cluster traditionally contains nine whetū, each with a unique purpose related to wellbeing, the environment, and the coming year. The nine stars of Matariki are:

Matariki: The mother star, representing health, wellbeing, and good fortune.

Pōhutukawa: Connected to those who have passed, prompting reflection on loved ones.

Tupuānuku: Associated with food grown in the ground.

Tupuārangi: Tied to foods that come from the sky, such as birds and berries.

Waitī: Linked to freshwater bodies and the resources they provide.

Waitā: Associated with the ocean and sea life.

Waipuna-ā-rangi: Connected to rain and nourishing rainfall.

Ururangi: Associated with the winds and seasonal changes.

Hiwa-i-te-rangi: The "wishing star" that represents hopes and aspirations for the future.

Matariki is a time to remember those who have passed, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the future.