Matariki is a time for remembrance, celebrating the present and looking to the future.
The Principles for Matariki
Matariki is a time of reflection, celebration and preparation. The three key principles for Matariki are:
Matariki Hunga Nui
Remembrance
Honouring those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki.
Matariki Ahunga Nui
Celebrating the Present
Gathering together to give thanks for what we have.
Matariki Manako Nui
Looking to the Future
Looking forward to the promise of a new year.
Matariki mā Puanga
Celebrating together
Matariki mā Puanga means Matariki (Pleiades) and Puanga (Rigel) and this phrase acknowledges the relationship between these stars. Both Matariki and Puanga rise in the eastern sky before the sun during the winter period, however some tribes and regions of the country look to Puanga instead of Matariki as the main marker of the New Year.
While the stars that mark the beginning of the New Year may vary in some regions the themes that underpin the ceremony and celebration are the same. We acknowledge our past, celebrate the present and look forward to a bright and prosperous future. The phrase Matariki mā Puanga is essentially a reminder that regardless of our different backgrounds, origins, and practices we use this celebration to come together and share the many unique elements that shape our identity.
While the stars that mark the beginning of the New Year may vary in some regions the themes that underpin the ceremony and celebration are the same. We acknowledge our past, celebrate the present and look forward to a bright and prosperous future. The phrase Matariki mā Puanga is essentially a reminder that regardless of our different backgrounds, origins, and practices we use this celebration to come together and share the many unique elements that shape our identity.
- The 2025 theme of Matariki mā Puanga is all about inclusion, embracing diversity and celebrating Matariki together
- Matariki and Puanga are stars that sit in the night sky together to signal the start ofthe Māori new year for different iwi.
- Matariki mā Puanga acknowledges and embraces the different traditions, stars and tikanga around celebrating the Māori New Year, recognising the regional variations
- We can all connect to the core values of Matariki and Puanga and embrace the diverse ways for marking the new year
Mātauranga (traditional knowledge) is not held by one person in one place – it is held by many people across the motu. We can all play a part in learning and sharing mātauranga so that regional Matariki or Puanga traditions thrive for generations.
The values of Matariki
The values that are associated with Matariki are listed below. These values are embedded in the traditional practices of Matariki and must remain a part of our Matariki celebrations.
Aroha
Love and respect for one another
Whakamaumaharatanga
Remembrance
Kotahitanga
Unity
Tohatoha
Sharing
Mana Taiao
Environmental awareness
Hākari
Feasting
Wānanga
Discussion
Noho tahi
Coming together
Atawhaitanga
Kindness
Whakanui
Celebration
Tuakiritanga
Identity