Maramataka/Māori lunar calendar basics to help you plan life better
Learning about Maramataka is a journey e hoa mā, a Ngāti Nerd black hole really. Rad. But, after some ahem… personal experimentation, it seems getting too detailed, too fast, caaaaan land you in spot of being totally lost and overwhelmed. The best approach, I’ve learned somewhat painfully, is to just get the four basic phases DOWN PAT to begin.
To make it as easy as poss, I’ve summed them up for you here. If you already know your phases, go straight to the rauemi/resource list for next steps!
Righto, SO the Māori lunar calendar consists of 12 ‘marama’ or lunar months made up of between 28-30ish nights depending on which rohe/territory you’re in (similar to our gregorian calendar, but they don’t align).
Each night has its own name, energy level, and special (often local) characteristics, which kinda sounds like magic but is actually based off the moon’s gravitational pull and a gazillion scientific and extremely practical environmental tohu/cues.
The four main phases are;
TANGAROA
Next period: 22 Jan-24 Jan (ish—rohe/region dependent)
Looks like: a waning quarter moon (the shadow has come in from the left side).
Energy: positive and productive
These should be fruitful days. In season, fishing, eeling, and planting will provide the goods. It’s a great time to challenge yourself physically and creatively. Push!
WHIRO
Next period: 27 Jan-29 Jan (ish—rohe/region dependent)
Looks like: great stars because the moon isn’t there—at this time it rises and sets with the sun
Energy: low
For many iwi, Whiro marks the beginning of a new Māori ‘month’ and moon. Often labelled as a ‘kino’/’bad’ time, it’s best spent tucked away relaxing, reflecting, and planning. Take extra caution and check in with loved ones.
TAMATEA PHASE
Next period: 3 Feb-5 Feb (ish—rohe/region dependent)
Looks like: a waxing quarter moon (the shadow has come in from the right side).
Energy: unpredictable
Here we’re on our way up to a full moon again fam. It’s an unpredictable time in weather, often featuring strong winds and rain, which can be mirrored in life. Look out for things that need fixing and perhaps delay big decisions. Take extra caution around the ocean.
RAKAUNUI PHASE
Next period: 13 Feb-15 Feb (ish—rohe/region dependent)
Looks like: a parehe/pizza pie full moon, you’ll see the moon rise as the sun sets.
Energy: highest of any phase
This period is the big one. Energy is at an all time high. It’s a great time to get things done, be active, and celebrate special occasions. It may be a bit harder to sleep and chill out.
Mīharo, nē?!/ Awsome, huh?!
Here’s a wero/challenge for you (and me): start looking up at night and make some notes on how you feel in each of these four basic phases.
Think of this mōhiotanga/knowledge as a kind of underlying environmental base. We’re all unique, the phases can hit us in different ways, certain events in life will always garner certain energies and reactions, but the more you tune in, the more you’ll notice your own cycles and be able to work in rhythm with them, rather than against!
Rauemi/Resources that helped me write this and can help you learn more:
- Tuhi Stationery, Introduction to the Maramataka online course
- Te Wānanga o Aotearoa printable Maramataka 24/25
- Toi Ako webinar with Ayla Hoeta
- National Library webinar with Rikki Solomon
- Waka Huia episode with Rereata Makiha
- Living by the Moon, pukapuka by Wiremu Tāwhai