Matariki is a public holiday in New Zealand that celebrates the Māori New Year. It marks the rising of the Matariki star cluster (also known as the Pleiades), which is an important event in Māori culture. The holiday is observed on the first Friday after the new moon following the winter solstice, which usually falls between late June and early July. Significance: – Matariki is the Māori name for the Pleiades star cluster, which is visible in the winter sky. The rising of Matariki traditionally signals the start of the Māori New Year and is associated with the changing of the seasons. – It is a time to reflect on the past year, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future. In Māori culture, Matariki is an important occasion for honouring ancestors, family, and the environment, as well as giving thanks for the harvest and preparing for the upcoming year. – Matariki also marks a time for new beginnings. In addition to its celestial significance, it holds a deep connection to the land, sea, and community, with the harvest season being a key theme. Traditions: – Celebrations: Matariki is celebrated with various cultural activities, including feasts, festivals, music, and dance. Māori and non-Māori communities alike come together to mark the occasion, reflecting on the past, present, and future. – Waka and Stars: Traditional Māori customs also include the lighting of bonfires, singing of songs (waiata), and the lighting of Matariki lanterns. The holiday is a time for whānau (family) and communities to come together and celebrate. – Reflection and Remembrance: Matariki is also a time to honor ancestors and loved ones who have passed away, reflecting on their contributions and keeping their memories alive through storytelling, rituals, and community events. History and Recognition: – Matariki as a Holiday: Matariki was officially recognised as a public holiday in New Zealand in 2022, with the first observance taking place on June 24, 2022. Prior to this, Matariki was celebrated mainly within Māori communities, but the recognition of Matariki as a public holiday has helped to raise awareness of Māori culture and its traditions across the country. – Cultural Reconnection: The introduction of the Matariki public holiday has been seen as a step towards greater cultural awareness and understanding, allowing all New Zealanders to engage with Māori heritage and celebrate their connection to the land and stars. Date: Since Matariki follows the lunar calendar, the date of the holiday changes each year, but it generally falls in late June or early July, depending on the timing of the new moon after the winter solstice.