How to Acknowledge and Honor Matariki

Matariki, the Māori New Year, is a time of reflection, celebration, and new beginnings. It is a time to honor ancestors, acknowledge achievements, and plan for the future. If you are interested in acknowledging and honoring Matariki, here are some ways to do so:

1. Learn about Matariki and its significance : Before you can honor Matariki, it is important to understand what it is and why it is significant. Matariki is a cluster of stars that appears in the sky in late May or early June, marking the start of the Māori New Year. It is a time to remember those who have passed, acknowledge achievements, and plan for the future. To learn more about Matariki, you can read books, watch documentaries, attend workshops, or talk to members of the Māori community.
2. Attend Matariki events and celebrations : Matariki is increasingly being celebrated throughout New Zealand, with events and celebrations held in communities, schools, and workplaces. Attending these events is a great way to learn more about Matariki and its significance, as well as to participate in cultural activities and connect with others.
3. Incorporate Matariki into your daily life : Honoring Matariki doesn’t have to be limited to a specific time or event. You can incorporate Matariki into your daily life by incorporating Māori practices and values into your routine. This can include:

• Saying a karakia (prayer) before meals or at the start of the day
• Incorporating traditional Māori foods into your diet
• Learning and using Māori words and phrases
• Participating in traditional Māori arts and crafts, such as weaving or carving

4. Connect with nature : Matariki is closely connected to the natural world, with its timing and significance tied to the cycles of the moon and the changing seasons. Connecting with nature is a great way to honor Matariki, and can include activities such as:

• Going for a walk or hike in nature
• Planting native trees or plants
• Observing the stars and learning about the constellations
• Incorporating natural elements, such as stones or feathers, into your home decor

5. Reflect and set intentions : Matariki is a time for reflection and goal-setting, so take some time to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the coming year. This can include:

• Writing in a journal or reflection book
• Setting personal or professional goals
• Creating a vision board or collage
• Participating in a group reflection or goal-setting activity

6. Honor your ancestors : Matariki is a time to remember and honor those who have passed, including ancestors and loved ones. You can honor your ancestors by:

• Lighting a candle or incense in their memory
• Creating an altar or shrine with photos or mementos
• Sharing stories and memories with loved ones
• Participating in a cultural practice or ceremony, such as a powhiri (welcome ceremony)

7. Support Māori communities and businesses : One way to honor Matariki is to support Māori communities and businesses. This can include:

• Buying products or services from Māori-owned businesses
• Attending events and activities hosted by Māori communities
• Volunteering your time or resources to support Māori initiatives or causes

Honor Matariki

There are many ways to acknowledge and honor Matariki, from attending events and incorporating Māori practices into your daily life, to connecting with nature and setting intentions for the coming year. Whatever approach you choose, the