Life Grows On… Matariki Reflections
“Matariki” star cluster as known across Te-Moana-nui-a-kiwa.
Image source: Ministry for Pacific Peoples
The rising of Matariki over the north eastern horizon - a cluster of stars known across Te-Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, which rises around the winter solstice - in Aotearoa signals the beginning of the Māori New Year, for many Māori across the motu (nation).
While the Matariiki public holiday is one day, to us it is a season. A season of hākari (celebration/feast) after the last harvest and sharing the abundance, storing crops and preserving crops, reflecting on the past, remembering lost loved ones and looking forward/planning the future.
Interestingly, Matariki always rises during the Tangaroa moon phase, which is the waning moon before Whiro, the New moon phase.
In our crew we have lost dearly loved ones. Mataraiki reminds us to remember their essence and the memories of them that light us up. Though they have transcended this physical realm, some Māori ancestors would say they shine on in the stars. It also reminds us that this limited life we have is for living… How will we live ours?
Lettuce and Broccoli seedlings catching the winter sunset outside our Ko’anga Nursery in Ōtara.
And so Matariki is a time to remember that life grows on. Hotoke (winter) is traditionally a time of rest, sharpen the tools and imagine, but it is also the best time to plant trees and seeds can still be sown.
We had an incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded communities at a Regional Hui focussed on Kai (Food) Sovereignty. Sowing seeds beyond our waka. A gentle reminder that our mycelium is still part of a much wider network and we are not alone.
As a crew, Matariki was also a valuable time for the PVA whānau to get together at our second home LAKA and reflect on the past 6 months of our waka journey. Highs and lows. Over a kava ceremony guided by our Spiritual Leader Ifalame, we created a space where we could insightfully look forward to the future and how we plan to grow on and traverse the dynamic seas as an organisation.
PVA Staff Reflection at LAKA. Missing some faces. Kava ceremony with our Spiritual Leader Ifalame, fresh Snapper caught by Niko and prepared beautifully by Susana and Kristian. Manawatia a Matariki from the crew! ♥