Matariki: Bringing our stars to life
The Matariki map used in the learning programme, created in partnership with Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.
The rising of the Matariki star cluster signals the start of the Māori New Year. This programme introduces learners to how Matariki connects us to people, to whānau and to the rhythms and seasons of the natural world. Tihei, mauri ora!
Key details
Suitable for: Years 1 to 8
Learning areas: Social sciences (including history), English, te reo Māori, science and the natural world.
Duration: 1–2 hours
Cost: Free
Available: Terms 2 and 3
Founding documents: He Whakaputanga — Declaration of Independence, Te Tiriti o Waitangi — Treaty of Waitangi
He Tohu themes: People, living together, our future
Tikanga
There are principles and cultural concepts that teachers might want to explore as a result of the stories and the mātauranga Māori embedded within those narratives. Some of these concepts include:
atuatanga
whānaungatanga
rangatiratanga
kaitiakitanga
maumahara
manaakitanga
mana taonga.
What ākonga will learn
Ākonga (students) will learn:
how Te Iwa o Matariki was formed in the sky as part of the creation of Te Ao Mārama (the world of light)
that the unique role of each star forms an essential relationship between the cosmos, the earth and tangata whenua
how tangata whenua formed a special relationship with the natural world which gave rise to scientific knowledge and practices developed through a process of adaptation and change.
What ākonga will do
Ākonga will:
participate in role-playing as the story is told
share about their own whānau families and their roles and responsibilities
interact with the programme resource materials provided as part of this experience.
Book this programme or find out more
Email the Senior Education Specialist, He Tohu Tāmaki at servicestoschools@dia.govt.nz.
Acknowledgement
We acknowledge the partnership and support of Te Wānanga o Aotearoa who provided mātauranga and digital assets for use in this learning programme.
