Archive for June, 2008

Once a year, twinkling in the winter sky just before dawn, Matariki (the Pleiades) signals the Māori New Year. This year, June 5 saw the rise of Pleiades and Matariki celebrations begin around the country.

Matariki is a time of celebration and reflection that everyone can take part in. Let NZLive.com introduce you to heaps of Matariki events where you can join in the spirit of the season.

There many ways to celebrate - from dawn services, drama and cook-offs to kapa haka, tours and tattooing. Matariki festivals, exhibitions and concerts abound.

Check out Te Ara - The encyclopedia of New Zealand to find out about the legends, significance to traditional harvests and the modern revival of Matariki. And if you want to know how to find Matariki, take a look at this great Beginners’ Guide to Matariki on the Signposts blog.

If you want to know more about the astronomy of Matariki, Te Papa, Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Stardome Observatory are all running informative sessions. You’ll find some great things to do in the classroom on www.NZHistory.net.nz.

‘New Zealanders have a passion for dreaming things up, playing with ideas and interpreting the world in unexpected ways. The sheer amount of creativity that goes on in the country makes you think there must be something in the water.

‘Amazing landscapes might be tourists’ first reason for visiting New Zealand, but the chance to explore local culture comes a close second…’

Read the newest NZLive.com featured article, provided by Tourism New Zealand.