As Matariki rises once again, we take this sacred time to pause, reflect, and reset. It’s a moment to honour those who’ve passed, ngā whetūrangi - and to look forward with intention, purpose, and collective kaha.

At He Waka Tapu, Matariki reminds us of our deep connection to the taiao and the mātauranga Māori that continues to guide our understanding of wellbeing. Just as our tūpuna looked to the stars to track time, harvests, and seasons of change, we look to this moment to realign our kaupapa with the evolving needs of our people - mō tātou, ā, mō ngā uri ā muri ake nei.

The stars remind us that everything is connected. Our wellbeing is woven through whakapapa, wairua, whānau, and whenua. As the stars reappear in the midwinter sky, they call us to reflect - not only on who we’ve lost, but on who we are becoming.

Looking for some ideas on how to celebrate Matariki at home?

Matariki means to me, a time of reflection on the past year. What went well, what needs work? I always honour my people in spirit around matariki, especially my Mum. What advice/guidance would she give me?

"Reflecting on the past year: Matariki will be a time that i can really slow down and reflect on what this past year has meant. Many changes have happened have happened in my life, and i will take the time to understand the meaning of those changes, and how they have brought me into the present moment"