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 Herenga Waka
For everyone
‘Matariki herenga waka’ is an adaptation of the proverb ‘Tāmaki herenga waka’ which means ‘Tāmaki the gathering place of many canoes’. Tāmaki is the name for the greater Auckland area, and today it is home to many people from across the globe. In 2026 the National Matariki celebration will take place in Tāmaki and will be hosted by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei.
The phrase Matariki herenga waka honours the connection to the Tāmaki region while at the same time highlighting the relationship between Tāmaki, Matariki and canoes. Auckland is often referred to as the city of sails and Matariki is part of a large star constellation called ‘Te Waka o Rangi’ the canoe of Rangi. However, the deeper meaning of this phrase is, Tāmaki is a home to everyone and Matariki has a connection to all people.
The phrase Matariki herenga waka honours the connection to the Tāmaki region while at the same time highlighting the relationship between Tāmaki, Matariki and canoes. Auckland is often referred to as the city of sails and Matariki is part of a large star constellation called ‘Te Waka o Rangi’ the canoe of Rangi. However, the deeper meaning of this phrase is, Tāmaki is a home to everyone and Matariki has a connection to all people.
- This year’s theme of Matariki herenga waka is all about inclusion and encouraging all people to celebrate Matariki together.
- The phrase, Matariki herenga waka is interconnected with the central iwi of Tāmaki and speaks to the diversity that underpins the Auckland region.
- The theme has strong connections to multi-culturalism and the sharing of cultural practices.
- We can all connect to the core values of Matariki and embrace the celebration of the holiday.
People are encouraged to come together to learn, to share and to celebrate Matariki and the Māori new year.
Mātauranga (traditional knowledge) is not held by one person in one place – it is held by many people across the motu as well as the wider Pacific. We can all play a part in learning and sharing mātauranga at both a regional, national and even international level. The celebration of Matariki as a national holiday in French Polynesia Tahiti is one example of how people can come together and share their own experiences and knowledge.
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