U Mat-Time

The Utopia Team
Jun 9
2 min read

Issue 170

9th June | Pipiri 2025

Kia ora koutou,

This week, our U Mat-Time theme is Matariki – Te Tau Hou Māori, celebrating the Māori New Year and all it represents: remembrance, connection, renewal, and hope for the future.

Through storytelling, waiata, star-themed art, and sharing time, tamariki will learn about the nine stars of Matariki and what each one represents – from food and harvest to well-being and the environment.

A heartfelt ngā mihi nui to our kaiako Aroha for leading this kaupapa with thoughtfulness and aroha. Your mahi brings tradition and learning to life for our tamariki in such meaningful ways.

Let’s embrace the spirit of Matariki together – a time to look back, look forward, and look after each other.

Ngā manaakitanga,

The Teacher Department at Utopia

What can we do with Tamariki

Activities:

Karakia Timatanga – Opening Blessing

"Whakataka te hau ki te uru..." (Recite a familiar karakia or use a visual for tamariki to join in.)

Welcome & Discussion – He Kōrero Matariki

Briefly explain Matariki:

“He wā nui tēnei mō te whakanui i te tau hou Māori.” (This is an important time to celebrate the Māori new year.)

“Kua kite koutou i ngā whetū i te rangi?” (Have you seen stars in the sky?)

“He aha ō koutou wawata mō te tau hou?” (What are your wishes for the new year?)

Waiata – Matariki Song Time

Teach or sing songs like: "Matariki E Ara" – Traditional Matariki song "Twinkle Twinkle Matariki" – Te reo version of the classic Use rakau or poi to engage movement and rhythm

Storytelling – He Pakiwaitara

Read a Matariki-themed picture book or tell a pūrākau: “The Seven Kites of Matariki” by Calico McClintock Use star cut-outs or puppets for each whetū

Te Reo Māori Game – Whetū Rapu (Star Hunt)

Hide 9 star cards around the mat. Call out names in te reo:

“Kei hea a Waitī?” (Where is Waitī?)

Tamariki take turns to find and match stars.

The following resources and ideas are provided for your reference to support this week’s fireworks theme.

Ngā Rauemi i te Reo Māori & Waiata

Resources & Songs

Ngā Whetū o Matariki

The Stars of Matariki

Matariki Stars Poster

These A4 mat time posters introduce each of the 9 Matariki stars with child-friendly explanations, kupu Māori, and reflective questions. Recycling sorting activity