Matariki is celebrated by some iwi this year on the 15th June (some iwi may wait till the rising of the next full moon or the dawn of the next new moon to celebrate). The date for Matariki changes from year to year.
We are learning about Matariki this week in Room 3 by looking at some of the Matariki myths and stories, creating some art work, writing poems and decorating our class room.
Matariki means 'Little Eyes' and it is the Maori name for the constellation of stars also known as Pleiades. Matariki is also the name for the star at the centre of this contsellation with the surrounding stars being named Tupu-ā-nuku, Tupu-ā-rangi, Waitī, Waitā, Waipunā-ā-rangi and Ururangi. There are many different myths and stories surrounding this constellation within Maori culture and in cultures around the world.
Traditionally Matariki was a time to celebrate the harvest (particular birds and fish are easily harvested at this time of year) and to celebrate the beginning of the new year. It is still a time for family gatherings, feasts and story telling.
No comments:
Post a Comment