Matariki is a unique cultural treasure in Aotearoa New Zealand, offering a perfect opportunity to immerse children in Māori culture. Play-based learning is the most effective way to introduce young learners to diverse cultures, planting seeds of respect and understanding. Here are three practical activities to celebrate Matariki in your centre.
1. Matariki Star Cluster Art
This activity allows children to create their own representation of the night sky, learning about the significance of the Matariki star cluster.
Cultural Context:
Share with the children that Matariki is the Māori name for the Pleiades star cluster, and its appearance signals the start of the Māori New Year. It's a time for remembering the past (Whakamaharatanga), celebrating the present (Whakanui), and planning for the future.
What you'll need:
- Dark blue or black card
- White and silver tempera paint
- Paintbrushes and cotton buds
- Edible glitter for a safe, sparkling effect
Instructions:
Show the children images of the Matariki star cluster. They can use their fingers or a paintbrush to dot "stars" onto the dark paper. While the paint is still wet, let them sprinkle on edible glitter to create a shimmering night sky. Finally, they can use cotton buds to gently connect the dots, forming their own unique constellations.
2. Matariki Lantern of Hope
Create beautiful lanterns that symbolize hope and new beginnings, a core theme of the Matariki celebration.
Cultural Context:
Explain that lighting lanterns during Matariki (Whakamārama) symbolizes chasing away the darkness (Te Pō) and welcoming the light and hope (Te Ao Mārama). It also represents family gatherings (Ngā Whānau) and the sharing of stories.
What you'll need:
- Paper lunch bags
- Coloured cellophane
- Safety scissors and glue sticks
- Star-shaped stencils
- LED tea lights (for safety)
Instructions:
Help the children trace and cut star shapes out of their paper bags. They can then glue coloured cellophane to the inside of the bag to create a stained-glass effect. Encourage them to draw simple Māori-inspired patterns like the Koru (spiral) on the outside. Place an LED tea light inside and dim the lights to see the beautiful, warm glow.
3. Waiata me te Kanikani (Song and Dance)
Music and movement are central to Māori culture and a joyful way to celebrate Matariki together.
Cultural Context:
Share that Waiata (song) and Kanikani (dance) are vital for passing down stories (Whakapapa) and expressing emotions. Matariki songs often celebrate the stars, harvest, and community.
What you'll need:
- A simple Matariki-themed Waiata (e.g., "Matariki Macarena")
- Simple instruments like shakers or rainmakers
Instructions:
Listen to a simple Matariki song together and learn a few repeating Māori phrases. Teach some basic, safe actions, such as gentle arm waves for the wind or twinkling "star fingers." Put the music on and encourage the children to sing, dance, and play their instruments in a joyful and inclusive atmosphere.
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