Happy New Year!

This is the time of year that the stars of the Pleiades, known here as Matariki, rise signalling the beginning of a new year for Maori, a time of remembrance of those who have left us during the previous year and a time of preparation for the next growing season as well as sharing food and stories.  It is increasingly being recognised and celebrated around the country and tonight there were fireworks in the city to start a week long festival.

One of the great things about living where I do is a lovely view across the harbour to the city from the end of my street. So I didn't have to go very far to enjoy them.