Kia Ora! Matariki, the Māori New Year, is an awesome time for us all to come together and celebrate. This Friday is a public holiday to honour the Māori New Year. It’s a special occasion that connects us to our ancestors, the land, and the stars.
When we see Matariki rising in the pre-dawn sky, we know it’s time to kick off the Māori New Year. It’s a time to reflect on the past, honour our whakapapa, and get ready for new beginnings. Matariki reminds us that nature is cyclical, and even during the darkest days of winter, there’s hope for brighter days ahead. Matariki aligns with the winter solstice (June 21st), which is when we have the shortest day and longest night of the year. But from there, things start looking up, as Matariki arrives, we celebrate the increasing daylight and the promise of warmer seasons. Matariki teaches us about the interconnections between the natural world and our lives.
Using solar panels and renewable energy technologies allows us to tap into the power of the sun to generate clean and sustainable electricity. It’s a way for us to reduce our impact on the environment and work towards a brighter future. Just as Matariki signifies renewal and growth, solar energy helps us reimagine our relationship with nature and move towards a more sustainable Aotearoa.
So, let’s celebrate Matariki, the Pleiades stars, and the sun! It’s a time for coming together, reflecting on our roots, and embracing a more sustainable way of living. As we honour our cultural traditions and protect our whenua, we can ensure a better future for ourselves and the generations to come.