Thursday, 19 June 2025

Matariki me Puanga


Mānawatia a Matariki e te whānau !

As the cold mornings settle in and the stars reappear in our skies, we come

together to honour a special time in Aotearoa.  Matariki me Puanga.

This is more than just the start of the Māori New Year. It is a time of reflection,

remembrance, celebration, and hope.  We have accomplished plenty and

have big hopes and dreams for the future.    


Matariki is a cluster of stars (also known as the Pleiades)

that rises in the winter sky and marks the beginning of the Māori New Year.

Traditionally, Māori communities would observe the stars to guide planting,

harvesting, and spiritual reflection.

In some parts of the country, especially where Matariki is not easily

visible due to landscape or weather, Puanga (the star Rigel) is observed

instead. Both traditions share the same heart – reconnecting with people,

land, and purpose.


This week in preparation for Matariki me Puanga our students

completed an activity that focused them in on remembering those who

are no longer with us.  They celebrated the present by thinking about what

they are most proud off so far.  The final box was making a wish for the incoming new year.  


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Matariki me Puanga

Mānawatia a Matariki e te whānau ! As the cold mornings settle in and the stars reappear in our skies, we come together to honour a special ...