Matariki this week

We have been celebrating Matariki in the past week at Auroa school and this Friday are going to have a fun day with lots of learning and a performance by the Kapa Haka group. If you don't understand what Matariki is here is a little information:

What is Matariki?

Matariki is the Māori name for the group of stars also known as the Pleiades star cluster or the Seven Sisters.  

During Matariki we celebrate our unique place in the world.

Matariki is an important time of the year for the provision of kai:

“Ngā kai a Matariki nāna i ao ake i runga.”

  “Matariki scoops up the food.”  

•There are 2 translations for Matariki.

•Matariki - tiny eyes.

•Mata Ariki – Eyes of God.

When is it?

During the end of May and the beginning of June each year, Matariki rises on the north east horizon.  The same spot as the rising sun.