Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand

For those wanting some ideas on what to do for Matariki.

Matariki Reading and Craft Activities - The Te Reo Māori Classroom Thinglink is back! By popular demand, I have resurrected my Matariki Thinglink from 2016 and added some of the recent popular activities. The beauty of this is that the Matariki activities are all in one place for busy kaiako. CLICK … Read More

Looking for your next teaching opportunity in Wellington?

Join a Montessori 3–6 environment where curiosity, independence and a love of learning thrive.

NZ-qualified ECE teacher
Supportive team
Meaningful work with tamariki aged 3–6

Learn more by clicking the link.

Qualified Teacher - Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand We are passionate about nurturing confident, independent, and curious tamariki. Our community-based, not-for-profit centre is grounded in calm, purposeful learning where children are supported to grow with confidence and a lifelong love of learning. What makes us special is our beautiful environment...

Understanding Matariki ceremonies and bringing these to life.

Matariki Celebrations – Matariki Because many of the different stars in Matariki are associated with food, Māori give thanks for its role in caring for the dead and bringing forth the bounty of the year by offering food. Before the rising of Matariki, special food is taken from the gardens, forests, rivers, and ocean and is cooked...

Want to understand a little more about Matariki? Here’s a short video for you as you start working or planning how to share this with your class.

The Stars of Matariki - Ngā Whetu o Matariki- The Sandman Marcus Winter ( English) Get ready to be spellbound by the beauty and symbolism of the Matar...

Matariki 2026: Matariki Herenga Waka

As we begin our journey towards Matariki 2026, we are excited to share this year's national theme: Matariki Herenga Waka.

Often translated as "Matariki is a mooring place for all canoes", this beautiful theme reminds us that Matariki is for everyone.

Inspired by the proverb Tāmaki herenga waka, which recognises Tāmaki Makaurau as a gathering place for many peoples and cultures, the theme celebrates connection, inclusion, and belonging. Just as many canoes come together at one harbour, Matariki invites people from all backgrounds to gather, learn, share, and celebrate.

At its heart, Matariki is a time for:
-Remembering those who have passed
-Celebrating the present with whānau and community
-Looking ahead with hope and intention for the year to come

While Matariki is deeply rooted in te ao Māori, its values are universal. Reflection, gratitude, connection, and renewal are experiences that unite us all.

For Montessori communities, this theme resonates strongly with our commitment to fostering respect, understanding, and a sense of belonging. It reminds us that knowledge is enriched when it is shared, and that each person brings unique gifts, stories, and perspectives to our collective journey.

As we approach Matariki, we invite Montessori communities throughout Aotearoa to explore, learn, and celebrate together.

Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone! https://www.tepapa.govt.nz/learn/for-educators/teaching-resources/matariki-akonga-nui-matariki-for-teachers