Matariki links strongly to the Drama Arts Curriculum (NZC 2007) because it provides rich cultural content that can be explored through performance, meaning-making, and storytelling. In drama, Matariki can be used as a context for developing ideas, creating characters, and exploring relationships between people, the environment, and the whetū (stars). This aligns with curriculum strands such as developing practical knowledge, developing ideas, communicating and interpreting, and understanding drama in context.
Through Matariki, ākonga can use drama techniques like voice, movement, role, and symbol to represent the characteristics and meanings of each star, bringing cultural narratives to life in a creative way. It also supports exploration of mood and atmosphere to reflect themes such as remembrance, celebration, and connection. In addition, Matariki encourages collaboration and storytelling, allowing students to work together to construct meaning and communicate ideas to an audience.