Music for Matariki

Matariki signals the Maori New Year. It is a time of celebration in New Zealand that begins with the rising of the Matariki star cluster (the Pleiades or Seven Sisters).

Traditionally Matariki was celebrated by gathering with whanau and reflecting on the past. Offerings were made to land-based gods who would help provide good crops, and new trees were planted to signal new beginnings.

HOW DO COMMUNITIES RECOGNISE MATARIKI?

Matariki is a good opportunity for Maori to share their stories and culture with the wider community, and many events and activities are planned throughout the country to share and celebrate Matariki. Some common events and activities include:

• Concerts
• Art and Craft Workshops
• The sharing of myths and legends
• Astronomy Workshops
• Hangi and Feasts
• Dawn Ceremonies
• Family Days
• Cooking Demonstrations