Matariki

Matariki is the Maori name for the group of stars also known as the Pleiades star cluster or The Seven Sisters and is referred to the traditional Maori New Year. The rise of Matariki can be seen in the last few days of May every year and the new year is marked at the sighting of the next new moon which occurs during June. Matariki has two meanings, Mata Riki (Tiny eyes) and Mata Ariki (Eyes of god). Today Matariki means celebrating the unique place in which we live and giving respect to the land we live on. Traditionally celebrations lasted up to 3 days after the new moon had risen following Matariki becoming visible.