Matariki

Matariki is the Māori New Year, named after the Matariki star cluster—known internationally as the Pleiades or Seven Sisters—which becomes visible in the early morning winter sky over Aotearoa New Zealand. In te ao Māori, the appearance of Matariki traditionally marked a time to remember those who had died, give thanks for the harvest, reflect on the past year, and prepare for the year ahead. The cluster’s stars are associated with different areas of life, including the environment, weather, food production, health, and human wellbeing, although interpretations and names vary among iwi and hapū.

The New Zealand Government established Matariki as an official public holiday in 2022, making it the country’s first public holiday to recognise and celebrate an indigenous Māori tradition. Its date changes each year because it is determined through a modern national framework based on the Māori lunar calendar, astronomical observation, and cultural guidance. In 2026, Matariki will be observed on Friday, 10 July. The holiday has developed as both a distinctly Māori observance and a national occasion that encourages remembrance, celebration, and collective renewal while respecting regional differences in tikanga.

Matariki celebrations commonly centre on three themes: remembering those who have passed away, celebrating the present, and looking toward the future. Families, communities, schools, marae, and organisations may gather for karakia, storytelling, kapa haka, waiata, music, art, astronomy activities, and shared meals. Some people rise early to observe the star cluster, while others take part in public dawn ceremonies, cultural festivals, or local events. The occasion is also used to discuss environmental care, set personal and community goals, and strengthen relationships through manaakitanga, or the practice of showing care and hospitality.

Food is an important part of many gatherings, with shared kai reflecting seasonal produce and local traditions. Meals may include kūmara, pumpkin, seafood, breads, preserved foods, and other dishes prepared communally, although there is no single mandated Matariki menu. Ceremonies often include quiet remembrance and acknowledgement of ancestors before moving into celebration and planning. Common greetings include “Mānawatia a Matariki,” meaning “Honour Matariki,” and “Ngā mihi o Matariki,” conveying Matariki greetings; local iwi may use other appropriate expressions and practices. As with all Māori cultural observances, pronunciation, protocol, and ceremony are best guided by local Māori communities.