Alt-Ed's Matariki Celebrations

Matariki is the Maori name for the group of stars also known as the Pleiades star cluster or The Seven Sisters;  and what is referred to as the traditional Maori New Year.  

Some say that Matariki is the mother surrounded by her six daughters, other stories suggest that Matariki is a male star.

These are the Māori names that make up the other six prominent stars of the Matariki cluster, Tupu-a-Nuku, Tupu-a-Rangi, Waitī, Waitā, Waipunarangi and Ururangi.  

Matariki has two meanings, both referring to a tiny constellation of stars; Mata Riki (Tiny Eyes) and Mata Ariki (Eyes of God).  

Traditionally, depending on the visibility of Matariki, the coming season's crop was thought to be determined. The brighter the stars indicated the warmer the season would be and thus a more productive crop.

It was also seen as an important time for family to gather and reflect on the past and the future. Today Matariki means celebrating the unique place in which we live and giving respect to the land we live on.  

This year Youthline Alternative Education School were invited to celebrate Matariki with other Central AE Schools and the local Tangata Whenua at Te Mahurehure Cultural Marae in Pt Chevalier.This was a very valued part of our Cultural curriculum.  

The day started with being welcomed by Kaumatua Bill who also regaled us with his childhood memories of Matariki in the far North. He captivated his young audience as they were able to retell his stories upon returning to school!  

Students participated in workshops that were organised for the day....Kapa haka, Waiata and Flax Weaving. All of the workshops had skilled and talented tutors that worked well in inspiring our Youth.  

But it seems that the most popular event of the day was LUNCH!! We enjoyed a beautiful hangi accompanied with fry bread that our students made to share. Seems though that most of the bread ended up on our table? We are working on the sharing bit......