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Events & conferences > Celebrating our Differences > Matariki
Matariki
Matariki is a small but distinctive star cluster whose appearance in the north eastern pre-dawn sky in late May, early June marks the start of a new phase of life.
In 2008 Matariki falls on the 5 June.
| Date: |
5 June 2008 |
| Time: |
At night |
| Location: |
Nationwide |
| Cost: |
Free |
Although there are tribal differences regarding the timing,
celebrations most often begin at the next new moon after Matariki has
risen. As with similar ‘moveable feasts’ in the western calendar, such
as Easter, the exact timing varies from year to year but usually occurs
during the month of June.
Matariki can be translated in two ways – Mata Riki (Tiny eyes) and Mata
Ariki (Eyes of God). Either way the eyes are thought to watch over the
land and its people.
As well as marking the start of a new year, Matariki also signals other
new beginnings. Traditionally Matariki was the time to plant trees,
prepare the land for planting crops and renew associations with whānau,
family and friends.
The New Year is also a good time to reflect on your place in the world,
to reawaken old skills or try out new ones and set new goals.
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