Celebrating Matariki

The rising of the star group Matariki in June each year signifies the beginning of the Maori New Year.

Also known in other cultures as the Pleiades and the Seven Sisters, Matariki is being increasingly celebrated each year, with events held throughout New Zealand in all communities.

Following the enormous success of her first book about Matariki for the Reed adult list, Libby Hakaraia has written this book for children.

Celebrating Matariki explains what Matariki is, how, where and when the constellation can be seen, and explains the importance of Matariki in Maori life and culture.

Her information is illustrated with historical and contemporary imagery, and the book includes 10 Matariki-related activities for children to try.

These include: Matariki quiz, Matariki wordfind, how to make a telescope, how to keep a starchart, making a Matariki mobile, how to make a compass, and recipes for a Matariki feast.

The story of Matariki is included on the CD, along with 5 songs about Matariki that children can learn.

Words to the songs are also included in the book.