Matariki

New Zealand: Sunday, July 23, 1:21 pm

Colorado: Saturday, July 22, 7:21 pm

Our two week winter break began with Christmas and ended with New Years! Let me explain. For those who have been following along, you know that our New Zealand friends were curious about what a cold Christmas felt like, so they had a Christmas party in July. It just happened to be the one and only weekend it has snowed! Then, the final week of the break was the Maori New Year holiday of Matariki. According to the web, Matariki is described as:

“A special occasion in the New Zealand calendar which marks the start of the Māori New Year. Signified by the Matariki cluster of stars reappearing in our night sky, this is a time to reflect on the past year, celebrate the present, and plan for the year ahead.”

To celebrate Matariki, we went to a very cool light show at the harbor. Water was sprayed into the air, and videos were projected onto the spray. These were videos of Maori songs and stories, as well as individuals telling their personal story. 

The girls learned all about Matariki at school and know the names of the Matariki stars. They love singing a version of the Macarena to the names of the Matariki stars. The first week back from break, there was a night for families to bring and share food (Kai), write a wish for the school on a paper star, and watch students perform the haka (a Maori ceremonial war dance). The girls each had Matariki projects to show off, as well.

My kids are always up for a challenge, and Bodhi decided his current challenge was to enter a science test competition. The first round was on the computer. He did this at home several weeks ago. A few weeks later he learned that he was able to participate in the second round, which was in person in Christchurch, a 4 ½ hour drive away. He and Bill drove up Friday night, Bodhi participated Saturday, and then they returned Saturday afternoon. He didn’t place, but he enjoyed the experience. Now we are getting ready for his science fair project (it has to do with hot sauce and bacteria….I’ll let you know more when it comes together!).

For those concerned about my job, I would like to reassure you that this week was better. I think having two weeks away (and one of those in the States getting rejuvenated with friends!) really helped my mental health!

We are now looking to the future, planning our garden for the spring, and thinking about where we want to explore next. We are hopeful for this new year ahead!