Matariki - Maori New Year

Matariki is a special occasion on the New Zealand calendar which marks the start of the Maori New Year.

The Matariki cluster of stars appears in the early morning sky in New Zealand during the southern mid winter months. The cluster is well known throughout the world and at different times can be seen around the globe. It is known by different names around the world - it's ancient Greek name is 'Pleides' (or the Seven Sisters), while in Japan it is 'Subaru,' meaning 'gathered together.'

Matauranga Maori (ancestral knowledge and wisdom) is at the heart of Matariki celebrations and is a time for:

* Remembrance - Honouring those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki.

* Celebrating the present - Gathering together to give thanks for what we have

* Looking to the future - Looking forward to the promise of a new year

How to celebrate Matariki:

* Reconnect with your home and whanau.              * Take time to remember loved ones who are no longer with you.

* Give thanks for the year that has passed.             * Spend time with family and friends.

* Share kai (food) together.                                        * Plan for the next year.

Matariki 2026 is on Friday 10 July 

St Lukes Church

Presbyterian, Methodist, Anglican

2 Mangati Road
Bell Block

06 755 1222
stlukesbbk@xtra.co.nz

Sunday Service:
9.30am