Matariki

Matariki Review

One of the key Maori occasions in Wellington is Matariki, the North Island Maori New Year in late May-early June, beginning with the first new moon after the appearance of Matariki (Pleiades). Te Papa Tongarewa-Museum of New Zealand hosts nearly a month of musical, storytelling, and dance performances; the events begin with a ceremony at dawn. Pick up a brochure and calendar of events at the museum. For a unique gift or souvenir, Te Papa Press also publishes a superbly illustrated Matariki calendar, which runs from June until May and is based on traditional Maori lore of the seasons.