Mānawatia a Matariki!
Matariki celebrations, marking the Māori New Year, start when the Matariki star cluster (also known as the Pleiades) becomes visible in the early morning sky in mid-winter. This period generally falls between late May and early July, with the exact date varying each year based on the lunar calendar. In 2025, the public holiday for Matariki is on Friday, June 20th, which aligns with the reappearance of the star cluster.
Celebrating Matariki can be a wonderful way to connect with loved ones and honour shared traditions. Consider gathering with whānau to share kai, which not only nourishes the body but also strengthens bonds. Stargazing can be a peaceful and reflective activity, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of the night sky. Engaging in Matariki-themed crafts together, like making paper kites or star decorations, can spark creativity and joy for children.
You might also explore local Matariki events (Some are listed below) to feel a sense of community or listen to Matariki stories. Whatever you choose, embracing these traditions can bring warmth and connection during this special time.
At Sugartree Lane Preschool, we’re excited to honour this special occasion with a celebration on Wednesday, June 18th, and we’d love for you to be part of it.
One of the traditions we’re embracing this year is sharing kai (food) as a way to bring our community together. We’re inviting each whānau to donate a vegetable – just one is plenty – and with your generous contributions, we’ll prepare a delicious Matariki soup for everyone to enjoy.
This is a wonderful opportunity for our tamariki to experience the joy of giving, working together, and sharing a meal made with aroha. It’s also a great way for us to weave storytelling, song, and tikanga Māori into our day in meaningful ways.
If you have any ideas or suggestions to help make our Matariki celebration even more special – whether it's a song, story, activity, or family tradition – we’d love to hear from you!
Let’s come together to celebrate Matariki in a way that warms our hearts and tummies.
Creative & Educational Matariki Activities to try:
Crafting: Make Matariki crafts like paper kites, star decorations, or even a collage with recycled materials. Create a Matariki display by cutting out stars, moons, and other symbols of water, reflecting the theme of the year.
Storytelling: Read or listen to Matariki stories with children, learning about the cultural significance of the event.
Engaging with Nature & Family:
Stargazing: Take time to look for Matariki in the sky (if your children are early risers). Before the sun rises, look towards the eastern horizon and trace from Orion's belt to the pyramid-shaped cluster of stars.
Sharing Kai: Prepare a Matariki soup or simply share a favourite family meal together.
Planting: Plant a tree or prepare a garden for new plantings, connecting with the earth and the Māori calendar.
Connecting with Nature: Take the family on a beach clean-up, giving back to the environment.
Local Events: Attend a Matariki event, which may include crafts and storytime performances.
June/July Local Free Matariki Central Auckland Events:
He Kakano
21 June (Saturday) 2025 - 3pm-8pm
22 June (Sunday) 2025 - 11am-4pm
Silo 6, Silo Park, Corner Beaumont Street and Jellicoe Street, Auckland City Centre
Immerse and reflect in a zone of contemplation and connection, exploring ngā toi / creative practices while learning and reflecting on ngā whetū o Matariki.
Wheelchair accessible, whānau friendly.
Matariki Storytime and star crafts!
Where - Parnell Library, 545 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland - Jubilee Building
When - Monday 30 June 2025, 10am-11am
Share time with whānau, strengthen community bonds, explore the significance of whetū (stars) in Māori culture and celebrate Matariki together.
All materials provided—just bring your creativity!
Suitable for children of all ages. Wheelchair accessible. No reservation required.
Tākaro at Silo Park
Saturday 5 July 2025 - Silo Park, Corner Beaumont Street and Jellicoe, Jellicoe Street, Auckland - 10am-3pm
Bring your whānau and friends for story, play and creativity in Silo Park with creative facilitators including tākaro (Māori games) expert Harko Brown and kaupapa Māori circus school, Te Kura Maninirau.
For more Matariki events go to https://www.matarikifestival.org.nz/matariki-events/
Here at Sugartree lane we acknowledge and celebrate everyone who honours Matariki in their own unique way. No matter how you're spending this Matariki period, I hope you have a restful break with family and loved ones.
