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Early Māori had a close connection with the stars and environment. Matariki is the name given to the distinctive star cluster that rises in the month of June.
Matariki is one of the most significant times in the Māori calendar being the Māori new year. The exact timing for matariki differs but it generally starts in June once the star cluster is visible. This year it started on 16 June.
There are many events to celebrate matariki happening this year - find information in the recommended websites below.
Books | Video | Digital Library | Websites
Recommended books
Matariki : the Māori New Year
A beautiful book with lovely illustrations. An easy read for all ages.
Matariki : Aotearoa Pacific New Year
An easy read book for children that covers the significance of Matariki.
The Māori division of time
A classic work by the well known author Elsdon Best.
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Recommeded video
Matariki
An interesting and educational video about Matariki.
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Digital Library
Find magazine and newspaper articles about Matariki in our Digital Library.
Check out the articles in these saved search results (use your library card barcode and PIN to log in):
Search Index Auckland for references sourced from Auckland area newspapers and journal articles.
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Recommended websites
Matariki Festival
This is the main site for the Matariki Festival 2007, packed with information about what is happening and where.
Matariki festival Myspace page
The Matariki festival has its own myspace page, packed with pictures and comments it's a great place to check.
Tai Tokerau
Tai Tokerau tourism has created this great page about Matariki. Includes information on Matariki events.
Astronomy NZ
A great site if you are looking for more information on Matariki and Māori astronomy. Includes star charts and Māori star names.
The Encyclopedia of New Zealand Te Ara
A fantastic site with pictures and information for all age levels.
Stardome
Situated on One Tree Hill, Stardome is celebrating Matariki by holding a competition and presentation from Tuesday to Saturday at 9pm.
Māori Language Commission Matariki website
The Māori Language Commission has created this great site with information about Matariki.
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