Matariki is an Māori celebration, what is Matariki? Matariki is the sisters of the 7 stars. Why do people celebrate Matariki? Traditionally, Matariki was a time to acknowledge the dead and to release their spirits to become stars. It was also a time to reflect, to be thankful to the gods for the harvest, to feast and to share the bounty of the harvest with family and friends. The seven sisters names are, Matariki, Tupuārangi, Waipuna-ā-Rangi, Waitī, Tupuānuku, Ururangi, Waitā, Pōhutukawa and Hiwa-i-te-Rangi. when is Matariki? Friday 28 June 2024 and beyond! Matariki is the biggest star of the 7 sisters cluster some people say there are 7 stars, 9 stars, or 11 stars!.