Matariki and the Māori New Year

Matariki, known as the eyes of God, is a cluster of stars marking the Māori New Year. The legend tells of Tāwhirimātea, who, in anger, tore out his eyes and threw them into the heavens, forming Matariki. The cluster includes stars like Tupuarangi, Tupuanuku, Waiti, Waitā, Waipuna Rangi, Uru Rangi, Pohutukawa, and Hiwa i te Rangi, each with unique significance related to food sources, weather, and cultural beliefs. Matariki is central to the cluster, symbolizing health and well-being. The video explores the cultural and practical roles of these stars in Māori tradition.

What is Matariki also known as?

• The eyes of Tāne

• The eyes of Ranginui

• The eyes of Tāwhirimātea

• The eyes of Papatūānuku

Who was unhappy with Tāne's actions and created the Matariki cluster?

• Ranginui

• Papatūānuku

• Tupuarangi

• Tāwhirimātea

Which star is considered the mother of the Matariki cluster?

• Tupuarangi

• Waiti

• Pohutukawa

• Matariki

What does Tupuarangi represent?

• Food from salt water

• Food from the ground

• Food from the air

• Food from fresh water

Which star is associated with rain?

• Hiwa i te Rangi

• Waitā

• Uru Rangi

• Waipuna Rangi

What is the role of Waiti in the Matariki cluster?

• Connected to the winds

• Tied to fresh water food

• Acknowledges loved ones who have passed

• Represents aspirations and dreams

Which star is known as the wishing star?

• Hiwa i te Rangi

• Tupuanuku

• Pohutukawa

• Waitā

What does Pohutukawa symbolize?

• Food from the air

• Loved ones who have passed

• The rain

• The winds

Which star is linked to food from salt water?

• Waiti

• Waitā

• Tupuanuku

• Uru Rangi

What is the significance of Matariki in Māori culture?

• It marks the Māori New Year

• It is a time for planting crops

• It marks the end of the year

• It is a time for harvesting