Matariki 2025: What Is The Theme Of This Year’s Matariki?

Coming Together Under Matariki mā Puanga

When the Matariki stars rise on June 20th, 2025, Aotearoa comes together to celebrate under this year’s theme—Matariki mā Puanga: Celebrating Together. But what does it truly mean to celebrate together? It’s a moment to pause, reconnect, reflect on those who came before us, and set our intentions for the year ahead.

At Arrowtown Stonework, we recognise the significance of connection at the heart of Matariki. Our handcrafted pounamu carries the warmth and aroha that this special season embodies, honouring heritage and bringing people closer.

 

---

Understanding Matariki mā Puanga

Matariki mā Puanga acknowledges two significant star groups, Matariki (the Pleiades) and Puanga (Rigel). While many across Aotearoa celebrate the Māori New Year through Matariki, others, particularly in Taranaki, Whanganui, and parts of the central North Island, look primarily to Puanga.

This year’s theme reminds us that, despite our varied traditions, Matariki brings us all together, celebrating the diverse elements that shape our identities.

Both stars rise in the eastern sky before dawn during winter, inviting us all to reflect on the past, appreciate the present, and welcome the future with optimism.

 

---

What is Matariki?

Matariki signals the Māori New Year, marked by the rising of the Matariki star cluster in winter’s pre-dawn skies. Traditionally, this special time allows whānau and communities to gather in reflection, gratitude, and unity.

Key elements of Matariki celebrations include:

• Remembering those who have passed

• Celebrating achievements and the present moment

• Setting intentions and goals for the future

• Connecting with nature and seasonal cycles

• Gathering as a community to share kai (food)

For many New Zealanders, Matariki offers a meaningful moment to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, and focus on what truly matters.

 

---

The values of Matariki 2025

The core values of Matariki guide how we celebrate this special season. Deeply woven into traditional practices, these values continue to shape our Matariki traditions today:

• Aroha: love and respect for one another
• Whakamaumaharatanga: remembrance
• Kotahitanga: unity
• Tohatoha: sharing
• Mana Taiao: environmental awareness
• Hākari: feasting
• Wānanga: discussion
• Noho tahi: coming together
• Atawhaitanga: kindness
• Whakanui: celebration
• Tuakiritanga: identity

 

---

Best Places to View Matariki in New Zealand

North Island

 

South Island

 

---

Celebrating Matariki at Arrowtown Stonework

As we approach Matariki 2025, we reflect on how closely this special celebration aligns with our craft. For over 40 years, our whānau has created meaningful pounamu pieces inspired by connection, remembrance, and aroha.

Beneath the clear, crisp winter skies here in Arrowtown, we warmly invite you to celebrate Matariki wherever you may be, whether gathering with loved ones, honouring memories, or setting intentions for the year ahead. Each handcrafted pendant, bracelet, or sculpture we create can become a meaningful part of your own whānau’s Matariki tradition.

 

---