Welcome Matariki

Today its Matariki in New Zealand, a time that celebrates the Māori New Year. It begins with the sighting of the Matariki star cluster, aka the Pleiades: an opportunity to welcome the New Year, gather for a time of reflection to remember those who have gone and look forward to the year ahead. A few years back it was made a public holiday which means it has been afforded more prestige in this little multi-cultural nation of ours, and brings with it a way for all Kiwis to celebrate this traditional Māori time.

Given I'm a mid-year birthday baby, I like the idea of combining our New Year Traditions with a mid-year one of a similar ilk for the year ahead. It's a good time to re-set and plan and, to be honest, as we get older, to be grateful we're still here!

Happy Matariki!

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