Monday, June 14, 2010

Matariki - the Maori new year is today

Today is Matariki - the Maori new year.

Traditionally a time of remembering the dead, celebrating new life and honouring Papatuanuku or Mother Earth.

This site has a great description of its meaning.

So today I will be thinking of loved ones who have gone, and those who are still to follow.

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3 comments:

  1. Charlotte ScottJune 14, 2010 at 2:26 PM

    It's a special time of year. Happy Matariki to you. I'll be thinking of my loved ones too.

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  2. soggybottomflatsJune 15, 2010 at 4:32 AM

    What an awesome way to honor your loved ones, thank you for sharing. I love hearing about different ways people have in different countries and cultures. In the US we have Memorial Day, the last Monday in May. We have evolved into honoring our dead soldiersw on that day too. Do you have other holidays that we don't have? Just curious, fine, nosy! Have a great week, Elaine in Texas

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  3. Cabbage Tree FarmJune 15, 2010 at 5:32 AM

    Hi Ms Lottie
    Hope you had a great day yesterday.

    Hi Elaine
    Well we did just have 'Queen's Birthday' weekend - the ties to the motherland are fairly strong! Although the day is not actually her birthday, and strangely enough, it's not celebrated with a holiday in England!!
    Best wishes

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