Matariki in Preschool- Free Printable

As a preschool teacher in Aotearoa (New Zealand), one of the most meaningful times of the year is Matariki — the Māori New Year.

It’s a time rich with cultural significance, connection to the land and sky, and opportunities for reflection and togetherness.

In our preschool, we celebrate Matariki to help children develop an appreciation for Te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview), and to learn values like gratitude, remembrance, unity, and hope for the future.

This time of the year is not only about looking back — it’s also about looking forward and celebrating who we are and who we are becoming.

What Is Matariki?

It marks the rising of the Matariki star cluster (known globally as Pleiades), which signals the start of the Māori New Year.

Traditionally, it was a time to remember those who had passed, give thanks for the harvest, and plan for the year ahead.

In 2022, Matariki became a public holiday in New Zealand — a powerful step toward honoring Māori culture and strengthening our connection with indigenous traditions.

How We Celebrate in Preschool

Celebrating with tamariki (children) is joyful, thoughtful, and full of wonder.

Here’s how:

Star-Themed Art

We’re creating our own star art, learning the names of the stars in the cluster, and using natural materials.

Sharing Kai

We’ll have a shared morning tea, where children can bring a small plate of food from home to share with friends.

This reflects the importance of manaakitanga (hospitality and care for others).

Waiata and Stories

We’ll be singing Māori waiata (songs) and reading beautiful picture books about Matariki.

Listed below are a few good recommendations:

Stories help children understand the meaning behind the celebration and build respect for the traditions.

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Planting for the Future

Planting seeds in the garden — a way of looking ahead and connecting to the earth.

Free Printable Activity Page

We’ve included a free printable activity page for your child to enjoy.

It includes a colouring page of a whare (house), for your children to draw -the special people in their lives.

Why it Matters

Celebrating this in our preschool helps children understand the beauty of Aotearoa’s heritage, and teaches them values of remembrance, connection, and new beginnings.

It’s about honoring the past, celebrating the present, and looking with hope toward the future — lessons that are just as important for our tamariki as they are for us.

To our preschool families, Ngā mihi o Matariki, te tau hou Māori — Happy Māori New Year!