What is the Maramataka | the Māori lunar calendar?
The Māori calendar begins in Pipiri (June/July) with the reappearance of the Matariki star cluster signalling the New Year. Learn the names of the months and nights in the traditional Maramataka.
The Maramataka | Māori calendar
The maramataka is a planting and fishing monthly almanac. For most iwi, the lunar months begin with the new moon (Whiro), but for others it begins with the full moon (Rākaunui). The start of each month is aligned to the morning rising of particular stars. (Source: Te Aka)
How to use the Maramataka | Māori lunar calendar
Print a Maramataka dial, explore its energy levels, and use it to plan activities with your whānau.
Months of the Maramataka | the Māori lunar calendar
In the traditional Māori Maramataka, or lunar calendar, the new year begins with the first new moon following the appearance of Matariki (Pleiades) on the eastern horizon. Usually this takes place in the period June-July.
Nights in the Maramataka | the Māori lunar month
Discover the nights in the Māori lunar month, and the activities related to them.
Astronomers explain Puanga and Matariki
Richard Hall, President of the Phoenix Astronomical Society, and Vice President Ian Cooper explain when we can see the star Puanga and why it’s linked to Matariki.
Matariki: The Māori New Year
Learn all about Matariki and see our events. Matariki is a time to gather with family and friends to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and plan for the future.