Help finding Matariki

Information on this page has been provided by the "Society for Maori Astronomy Research and Tourism" www.star-smart.maori.nz

Excerpt from "Almost everything about - The Stars of Matariki" brochure

Matariki is a small group of stars that are used by many Maori Tribes (but not all) to mark the end and the beginning of the year.  Maori are not the only people to use these stars as a seasonal marker; they have captivated people all over the world, being a major signpost in the sky for many of Earth’s older cultures.

To find Matariki in the sky you first need to look for the pot.  If you draw a straight line from the pot towards North (your left) you will first stumble across a cone-shaped formation of stars.  That is Matakaheru or the Hyades.  Follow the line to the left and you will find Matariki.  This year the sight will be regal.  Both planets Venus and Mars will shine on the firmament just before dawn, heralding the rising of Matatiki.  The cortege will be accompanied by Mercury appearing just after the star cluster, all hailing the new Moon, the Sun and the beginning of a New Year!

Click onto the image above to download or printout "Almost everything about - The Stars of Matariki" brochure - there is also information on Lunar Calendars. 

More resources about Matariki are avaiable at www.mata-a-ariki.maori.nz   Click onto the image to be directed to the website built by the "Society for Maori Astronomy Research and Tourism".