In June Maori celebrate New Year, known by the stars that rise for the first time. Through most of the country is is known as Matariki but in Taranaki we celebrate Puanga. Matariki is the Seven Sisters or the Pleiades and Puanga is Rigel. If you are up at dawn and facing south on a clear morning you can see them rise.
The tradition is that you remember those who have passed away in the last 12 months and look forward to the coming year of abundance. So at work we have had a whole month of speakers and activities learning about the stars, navigation and the Maori view of climate change and heaps of other stuff. It was topped off yesterday with a day of activities at Puke Ariki and a celebration dinner at one of the local surf clubs, fab food music and dancing, just like New Year should be.
Oh, and I've been to a CD launch and an exhibition opening - seems I've made my way onto some official invite lists.
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