Matariki is the start of the Matariki Maori New Year – a time of celebration, remembrance, growth and renewal.
Photo: RNZ/ King of Asia
Official celebrations took place across New Zealand today as the nation marked the first Matariki public holiday.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and other dignitaries attended a ceremony in Wellington.
Ardern said she was repeatedly moved by people’s reaction to making Matariki a public holiday, which she called a historic milestone.
In Te Papa, the hautapu ceremony was led by Sir Pou Temara, who said New Zealanders would look back and say we came of age today.
Here’s a look at some of today’s events and scenes.
Photo: RNZ / Shannon Haunui-Thompson
Over 1000 people gathered at Takaparawhau this morning to observe Matariki and welcome the New Year.
Photo: RNZ / Liam Brown
Photo: RNZ/ Liam Brown
Photo: RNZ/ King of Asia
Photo: RNZ / Liam Brown
Photo: RNZ Screenshot
Matariki celebrations on the port.
Photo: King of Asia / RNZ
The RNZ crew celebrate Matariki in the studio.
Photo: RNZ
Scotty Morrison offers a karakia during the Hautapu ceremony.
Photo: Erica Sinclair Photography
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Rangi Matamua gaze at the stars.
Photo: ERICA SINCLAIR
Tohunga Paraone Gloyne gazes at the stars during the hautapu ceremony.
Photo: ERICA SINCLAIR
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