Matariki

W.A.L.T use visual language. We had to use subheadings, text boxes and pictures to extend or clarify meaning.

This week I was learning about Matariki.
I enjoyed making this because it is always fun to learn about Matariki.
I found it challenging to finish it off because there was lots to write about.
My digital learning object shows I know about Matariki.

What is Matariki?
Matariki
Matariki is the Māori name for a large group of stars  which you can see in the night sky at a specific time. In June and July Matriki will appear in the night sky and then it will be a start of a Māori new year it is also a time to celebrate a new life for people who have passed it is also a great time to spend with Whānau and friends to enjoy all sorts of things.

Our ancestors would find Matariki for help with their gathering. When Matariki left in April and May it was time to gather crops for the cold winter coming when Matariki appear again in June and July the tupuana (ancestor or grandfather) would read the stars to say the coming season. The dates of Matariki can change every year.

How many stars does Matariki have?


 Dr Rangi who has been studying Matariki for thirty whole years. As part of his studying Dr Matamua found out that some of his ancestors have seen nine stars in the sky. Each star holds a special significance over our good and environment as seen from Māori views of the world.

The nine Matariki stars.

Matariki is the star that signifies reflection, hope our link to the environment and the gathering of people Matariki is also linked to the health and good of people.

Pohutukawa.

Pohutukawa is a star linked to people who have passed away.

Waiti.

Waiti is linked with all fresh water bodies and the food all that are meant by those waters.

Waipuna-a-rangi.


Waipuna-a-rangi is linked with the roaring rain.

Tupuanuku.

Tupuanuku is the star linked with everything that grows with the soil to be harvested or gathered to be eaten.

Tupurangi.

Tupurangi is linked with everything that grows in the tall trees like fruit berries and birds.

Ururangi.

Ururangi is the star linked with the blowing winds.

Hiwa i te rangi.

Hiwa i te rangi is the star connected with granting our wishes and realising our longing for the comig year.