People all over New Zealand gathered before dawn to celebrate Matariki, the Māori New Year, marked by the rising of a special star cluster. Though it became a public holiday only in 2022, Matariki is already one of the most meaningful days in the country, being the first holiday to honor Te Ao Māori—the Māori world. This year’s national ceremony was held at Tirorangi Marae near Mount Ruapehu, hosted by Ngāti Rangi.
Che Wilson, a spokesperson for the iwi, said it was a great honour to host the event. The ceremony included karakia offered to the stars, following local traditions tied to four Māori gods: Tāne, Rongo, Tangaroa, and Maru. Many important guests, including the Māori Queen and government leaders, attended.
At Bastion Point in Auckland, hundreds took part in a hautapu ceremony, where steam and food were offered to the stars. Different kinds of food represented different stars in the Matariki cluster, connecting the sea, land, and sky.
In Tauranga, people climbed Mauao before sunrise for a special ceremony to remember loved ones who had passed away. During this quiet and emotional moment, families spoke the names of their departed to help with healing.
From north to south, Matariki brought communities together in celebration and remembrance. As Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said, it’s a time of unity—or “kotahitanga”—that connects people across Aotearoa and beyond.
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