Matariki

Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti is actively involved in the promotion and revitalisation of Matariki in the community. 

Matariki is the Māori name for the star cluster known as the Pleiades. The ascent of Matariki in late May or June signalled the change of season and heralded the start of the Māori New Year. For iwi on the west coast, the ascent of Puanga (Rigel in Orion) indicates the start of the Māori New Year as the pae maunga (mountain ranges) obstruct the view of Matariki. 

When is Matariki?

Different iwi celebrate Matariki at different times. The Māori New Year is marked by the ascent of Matariki and the sighting of the next new moon.

In 2020 Matariki rises between 13 and 16 July.

How do I find Matariki?

Check out the A beginner's guide to finding Matariki available on Signposts, the weblog of Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand.

Maramataka

Each year, Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti produces a Maramataka (calendar) that covers the period 1 July to 30 June and includes information for fishing and planting by the moon. 

The Maramataka is officially blessed and launched around the time of Matariki.

The new Maramataka will be available for purchase at Council service centres for $10 each.

The 2020/21 Maramataka will be launched on 10 July 2020 at Takapuwahia Marae in Porirua.