Tirotiro Whetū | Star finding activity.

Tirotiro Whetū | Te Kāhui o Matariki Collection

Star-Finding Activity.

Discover the stars of the Māori New Year with this engaging and educational activity pack. Tirotiro Whetū guides tamariki and whānau through the night sky, helping them find and observe Tautoru, Puanga (Puaka), and Matariki.

Across Aotearoa, iwi recognise either Matariki or Puanga as the tohu that marks Te Mātahi o te Tau. Some iwi honour both, reading their appearance as signs for the year ahead. This pack supports those kōrero while encouraging hands-on learning.

What’s included:
• 5 x A4 Full Colour Star-Finding Activity Sheets
• 5 x A4 Black & White Outline Versions (ideal for colouring in)
• Illustrated night sky maps and clear step-by-step instructions
• Space to draw and record your observations

How to use:
• Follow the steps to locate Tautoru (Orion’s Belt), your anchor point
• Find Puanga above and Matariki low on the eastern horizon
• Draw what you see, note star brightness, or colour in your own night sky
• A perfect whānau or classroom activity that blends mātauranga Māori with astronomy

Best time to look:
• Late autumn to early winter
• Just before sunrise, between 5–6am
• On a clear morning, facing southeast

Reconnect with the stars, observe the tohu o te rangi, and celebrate the Māori New Year through this interactive learning resource.