Happy Matariki to everyone.
Signalling New Year, Matariki is a time of renewal and celebration in Aotearoa New Zealand that begins with the rising of the Matariki star cluster and the rising of a new moon.
A number of the team from our Glen Eden campus and members of local iwi celebrated Matariki with dawn karakia (prayers) at Pukematekeo, a lookout in the Waitakere Ranges from which the sea on both sides of Tāmaki Makarau can be seen. It was very cold but a wonderful way to be involved in Matariki and learn more about it. It was followed by a time of kai in the warmth of the Glen Eden Baptist Church café.
Visionwest staff and local iwi gathered to welcome in Matariki 2022.
Traditionally, Matariki followed the harvesting of crops when the pātaka (food storehouses) were full, freeing up time for family, reflection, and celebrations of various kinds.
Matariki is a little different to the ideas many people have about January New Year celebrations. A common element within Matariki is remembering those we have lost in the past year. Matariki also includes the concept of taking time to prepare for the year that is to come. For those of us at Visionwest, it’s a great to time to think about the 12 months ahead and all that we’d like to achieve as we continue to focus on walking alongside those in our community who need our support.
We encourage everyone in Aotearoa New Zealand to mark Matariki at work and home by:
- Gathering for a hearty celebration meal.
- Talking about some of the people that have passed away recently and reflect on what their lives have meant to you.
- Sharing some of your hopes and dreams for the year ahead.
Happy Matariki everyone!