Matariki, explained by Rakiihia Tau

Rakiihia Tau is Upoko of Ngai Tuahuriri and he has donated this text to Christchurch City Libraries.

In this document, he explains Matariki in terms of what it meant for the life of Southern Māori and puts it in the context of the year long cycle of mahinga kai - gathering food and the necessities of life.

Rakiihia Tau grew up at Tuahiwi, attended the Native School there and continues to live there today.

Matariki marks the beginning of the Māori new year, and is a time of learning, preparation and planning for the time ahead.

• Read Matariki, explained by Rakiihia Tau .PDF (24kb)
• For more information on Ngai Tuahuriri, see our page on Tuahiwi Marae in Tī Kōuka Whenua.
• Find Matariki books in the library catalogue