Celebrating Matariki

Cultural Literacy: understanding diverse views, learning about other traditions, sharing language.

As we celebrate our first public holiday as a nation that honours Māori culture and traditions, that are still alive and well today, it is good to reflect on the meaning of this time of year.

 In the cold months around Matariki, people gather to keep warm, share knowledge through pūrakau (stories) and waiata (song). Traditionally, it was a time to remember those who have passed and to dream of new beginnings. Today, whānau and friends enjoy kai (food), tākaro (games) and haka (Te Wānanga O Aotearoa).

At this time of year, public libraries celebrate Matariki with a range of cultural activities and events; exhibitions, workshops, talks, arts and crafts and reading challenges. Learn to play a traditional Māori instrument, watch a master flax weaver or carver at work, kōrero Māori, listen to stories of ancient people, and their gods or discuss the Treaty of Waitangi.

Or cosy up with a selection of Matariki Winter Reading from the Coalition of Books Catalogue 2021.

Check out what’s on at your local library. No matter where you live, there is something for everyone.