What is Matariki?
Matariki is a celebration of the new year, harvest of crops, new life and remembering the dead. Although it is also the maori name for a cluster of stars also known as Pleiades. Matariki has two common meanings, ‘the eyes of god’ (mata ariki) or ‘little eyes’ (mata riki). According to legend, when Ranginui, the sky lord and father, and Papatūānuku, the earth mother, were parted by their confined children, the god of the winds, Tāwhirimātea, became so angry that he tore out his eyes and threw them into the heavens.
Why do people celebrate Matariki?
It is usually celebrated after a harvest of crops and it means a maori new year.
Who celebrates Matariki?
The people of New Zealand, even some people refer to it as the New Zealand Thanksgiving.
When is Matariki celebrated?
It comes in mid-winter, after the harvest.
Where is Matariki celebrated?
Matariki is celebrated in New Zealand.
How is Matariki celebrated?
Matariki was commonly celebrated long ago, and many still do now, by offering gifts to the Earth Mother, planting new trees, and gathering their family together. Now a lot is celebrated with music, dance, food and family.
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