No M+AD tomorrow as Aotearoa kicks off Matariki festivities

AUCKLAND, Today: Tomorrow (Friday 28th), Aotearoa celebrates Matariki, the Māori New Year. Matariki, the Māori name for the Pleiades star cluster, appears in midwinter, signaling the new year for many Māori.

Matariki means The eyes of the god Tāwhirimātea. According to Māori legend, Tāwhirimātea, the god of the wind, threw his eyes into the heavens in anger when his siblings separated their parents, Ranginui the sky father and Papatūānuku the earth mother.

Traditionally, Matariki was a time to honour the dead and release their spirits to become stars. It was also for reflection, giving thanks, and sharing harvest bounty with loved ones.

Many businesses will be closed, but most shops and licensed premises will remain open. Enjoy the festivities, and we’ll be back on Monday!

• matariki.com