Matarikipleiades, Māori New Yearmatarikinoun in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “Matariki/Pleiades” refers to the Māori New Year, a significant time in Aotearoa (New Zealand) that celebrates renewal, reflection, and the connection to the environment. In the NZ Deaf community, this sign is often used during the Matariki celebrations, which typically occur in June or July, marking the rise of the Matariki star cluster. It encompasses cultural practices, storytelling, and communal gatherings.

How to Sign “Matarikipleiades, MāOri New Yearmatarikinoun” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in a loose “5” handshape.
2. Position your hands in front of your chest, palms facing each other.
3. Move your hands outward in a gentle circular motion, as if mimicking the rising of the Matariki stars in the sky.
4. Maintain a neutral facial expression, but you can add a smile to convey warmth and positivity about the celebration.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use both hands can make the sign incomplete. Ensure both hands are in the correct position.
• Using an incorrect handshape; remember to use a loose “5” handshape to represent the stars.
• Not incorporating facial expressions, which are essential in NZSL to convey emotions and context.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “Matariki” emphasizes the cultural connection to the Māori New Year with specific handshapes and movements reflecting the stars’ rising. In contrast, ASL may not have a direct equivalent and might use different signs or phrases to express the concept, often relying more on descriptive phrases rather than a unique sign.

Related Signs

• Rainbow – A symbol often associated with hope and celebration.
• Earth – Represents the environment, which is a significant theme during Matariki.
• Star – A sign that connects to the celestial theme of Matariki.
• New Year – A general sign for New Year celebrations, not limited to Matariki.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “Matariki” in a sentence?

You can say, “I celebrate Matariki with my family” by signing “I” + “Family” + “Celebrate” + “Matariki”.

Are there regional variations for this sign in NZ?

While “Matariki” is generally consistent, some regions may have slight variations in hand movements based on local dialects in NZSL.

What are some signs similar to “Matariki”?

Signs like “Star,” “New Year,” and “Earth” are related and can be used in context to discuss Matariki.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice regularly in front of a mirror to check your handshape and movement. Also, watch videos from native NZSL users.

Can I incorporate te reo Māori into my signing?

Absolutely! Incorporating te reo Māori signs enriches your signing and shows cultural respect and understanding.

When is Matariki celebrated?

Matariki is celebrated in June or July, marking the beginning of the Māori New Year and the rising of the Pleiades star cluster.