Reflecting on Matariki: Cultural Awareness for Māori Clients

In Aotearoa, providing care is an opportunity to connect with people from a wide range of backgrounds. But arguably most central to our work as care providers is recognising the importance of Māori culture — not as an add-on, but as a foundation. As nurses and support workers, understanding and embracing Māori culture isn't just good practice. It's essential for building meaningful relationships and delivering genuinely sensitive care.

Matariki — the Pleiades star cluster — marks the beginning of the Māori New Year. It's a time of remembrance for those who have passed, and of planning and preparation for the year ahead. Its return is a good moment to reflect on what cultural awareness really means in our day-to-day work.

Cultural awareness goes well beyond acknowledging dates like Matariki. It involves a genuine understanding of Māori customs, values, language, and traditions. That understanding is what builds trust — and trust is what makes care work.

1. Honouring Whānau

Family — whānau — sits at the centre of Māori culture. Understanding the significance of familial ties, and respecting the roles of different family members, can fundamentally shape the quality of care you provide. Inclusive care isn't just about the client. It's about making their whānau feel valued and involved too.

2. Embracing Te Reo Māori

Te Reo Māori offers a window into a unique cultural perspective. You don't need to be fluent — but even simple greetings and phrases go a long way. They demonstrate respect, and show that you're making a genuine effort to connect. Reo Māori has great resources to help you get started.

3. Respecting Tikanga

Tikanga refers to customary Māori practices — the correct and culturally appropriate way of doing things. A useful starting point is understanding tapu (sacredness) and noa (ordinary). Certain objects, places, or practices may be considered tapu and require particular care. Quick overviews can be found through Te Herenga Waka and Right to Reach.

4. Recognising Cultural Practices

Karakia (prayers) and hongi (the traditional greeting) are meaningful aspects of Māori life. Respectfully participating — when invited and when appropriate — creates a sense of trust and familiarity that goes a long way in a care setting.

5. Keep Learning

Cultural awareness isn't a one-time tick-box. It's an ongoing journey of learning, respect, and appreciation. By honouring the cultural values and traditions of your Māori clients, you build deeper trust — and deliver care that truly makes a difference. A good overview of Matariki can be found at Te Ara.