Photo: Erica Sinclair Photography
Leading advocate for Matariki, Astronomy Professor Rangi Mātāmua (Tūhoe) has recently returned from a trip to Tahiti. The trip was at the invitation of the government there, where there is interest in instituting a Matariki holiday. As part of the trip Professor Matamua visited the ancient marae of Taputapuātea on Ra’iātea or Havai’i Island, a homeland for the Māori people.
This Friday June 28 sees Aotearoa celebrate Matariki, the Māori new year for the third time as a public holiday.
It further cements Matariki celebrations nationwide as a time of community gathering for remembrance, celebrating the present and looking to the future.
Photo: Erica Sinclair Photography
Ahead of Matariki, Professor Mātāmua joins RNZ’s Culture 101 to share his love of Aotearoa culture, and celebrate some of his favourite artists. Among his picks are musicians Maisey Rika, Rob Ruha, Stan Walker and Troy Kingi.
Matamua was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit in May for services to Māori astronomy and was last year named New Zealander of the Year.
He has chaired the Matariki Advisory Group and was appointed chief advisor to the government, which led to the institution of the public holiday.
Recommended as invaluable resources and for Matariki news are his Living by the Stars website and social media, and this video lecture.
