Matariki — Māori New Year
In 2012, this takes place on Pipiri 21 June.
During Matariki we celebrate our unique place in the world. We give respect to the whenua on which we live, and admiration to our mother earth, Papatuanuku. Throughout Matariki we learn about those who came before us: our land, our history, our family.
Matariki signals growth. It’s a time of change, a time to prepare and a time for action. During Matariki we acknowledge what we have and what we have to give. Matariki celebrates the diversity of life — culture, language, spirit and people.
Focus on te reo Māori
Matariki is a focus for the revitalisation of te reo Māori. Many organisations choose to draw attention to the importance of te reo Māori in Aotearoa. Other traditional knowledge of the Māori world is also highlighted and celebrated.
More Māori resources at your library
- More about Matariki
- Pūrākau and Pakiwaitara – Maori myths and legends - a BiblioCommons booklist
- Tī Kōuka Whenua
- Māori section of the library website
Matariki events
Events from Christchurch City Council and Christchurch City Libraries. Download the Matariki events brochure [1.35MB PDF]
Matariki collateral
