Matariki – an ancient tradition, but is it?

adamsmith1922

Jul 2

Some thoughts from 2022 on Matariki as we approach NZ's second celebration of Matariki as a National holiday. In 2023 the public holiday will be 14 July. Interesting to note that this year Matariki and Bastille Day coincide.

I dont agree with some of the subtle racism from some people commenting here but as a Maori i was raised around my Marae and Maori tradition and NOT ONCE was matariki ever a thing or a discussion. This has been the case going back generations in my family who are very traditional

— commonsenseMaori (@ECA_Beast) June 23, 2022

Same here.

I grew up in a traditional Maori family, both my parents were fluent in Te Reo and NOT ONCE was Matariki mentioned.

I'm happy to have it brought back, but pretending it's some treasured festival that Maori have enjoyed for generations is just bullshit.

— Lawrence Hakiwai (Father/of two) (@SonofOmahu) June 24, 2022

It seems that the tradition was very well buried and only revived in 2001 by the Maori Language Commission. I searched on the Wayback Machine and the first mention of Matariki was in 2001. It didnt exist prior to that online in any publication. This capture from 2003 explains it. pic.twitter.com/DzKut88QmQ

— Amy Jones (@Light42Lime) June 24, 2022

Wasn't a thing in my iwi? first document of its kind I have ever seen or heard of and obviously sourced within the kingitanga. Certainly not a view that is a generationally communicated view in my hapu and it obviously does not have the fanfare of what its made into today.

— commonsenseMaori (@ECA_Beast) June 24, 2022

astronomy for navigational purposes yes. Not for celebrations or some kind of "Maori Christmas" like this government makes it out to be. Maori were very practical and had practical uses for observations made in nature.

— commonsenseMaori (@ECA_Beast) June 24, 2022