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Matariki is a relatively new public holiday that’s been generally welcomed favourably by Kiwis. It’s not only just a day off work and school, as PJ TAYLOR discovered when asking around Howick Village Market: What does Matariki mean to you?
Robert Picot, of Howick
“It’s a mid-year time of renewal and reflection, a new opportunity to celebrate Māori culture. How many public holidays do we have specifically for Aotearoa?”
Callum Morriss, of Farm Cove
“I know it’s about the Seven Sisters stars constellation and it signifies the Māori New Year, as do the flax leaves woven into stars. The holiday celebrates new beginnings.”
Naomi Thoms, of Howick
“Last year, Matariki in Howick at the Garden of Memories was more than fantastic as the dawn was coming, celebrating Māori and for what Miss Emilia Maude Nixon has done.”
Shona Kenny, of Bucklands Beach
“It’s a good time that acknowledges culture and customs. We have too many public holidays. We need to assess and look at what ones are priority. It has an impact on employers.”
Angelique Jurd, of Beachlands
“It’s awesome and was well-overdue when introduced. It’s about the start of something new, a turnaround. We get to celebrate a part of Aotearoa culture.”
Vanessa Hatley-Owen, of Cockle Bay
“It’s a great new thing to celebrate. As we move forward, we get to learn and know about the Māori world all that much better.”
