The Heavenly Rise of Matariki: Celebrating the Māori New Year

The Māori New Year is indicated by the passage of the stars. It is thus named Matariki, which is the Māori name for the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades. Matariki translates to the “eyes of the chief” or the ”eyes of the God” in English. As the world continues to evolve, Māori communities continue to embrace the ancient teachings of their ancestors. The time-honored wisdom is passed on to new generations by instilling the implied lessons of the Matariki legends and other mythical stories that are rich in understanding and virtues.