Matariki is not just Aotearoa’s Māori New Year, Matariki is both the central star (whetū) and the name of the Matariki star cluster observed over the Māori New Year Matariki season.
As the central star, Matariki, represents health, wellbeing, and bringing people together. It is a time for mid-year reflection and resetting your path. If you are a local or a traveler exploring New Zealand culture, planning to travel here, or adjusting to life in Aotearoa, understanding this mother star and the rest of the Matariki cluster connects you deeply to the land.
I’ve written & filmed longer vlogs and videos about the meaning of each of the stars and what you could do to celebrate and remember them at home during this holiday season in Aotearoa (or wherever you’re watching this from 🌌✨).
In the full video, I share my deep personal reflections on what Matariki means to me, taking time off work to recover from a cold, spending time with loved ones, the Wellington Harbour Celebration, and how I honored her light this year.
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