The Legend

Matariki, symbolizing the mystery of nature, is the Maori name for the mother of the small cluster of stars in constellation Taurus. The six prominent stars around her are believed to be her beautiful daughters.

Image Courtesy of Anglo Australian Observatory/David Malin Images

Making her arrival around the shortest day, Matariki brings light to the barren land and bare vines. Such was her importance that her appearance was studied for signs of what the ensuing year might bring. If she and her 6 daughters were easily seen, a bountiful season would follow. Women sang and danced to celebrate the new lifecycle and festivities were held to ensure fertility and growth. Matariki's annual journey across the sky controls the seasons and encourages the earth to provide us with her bounty. In autumn as the crops are harvested and preserved and as the days become shorter, Matariki disappears below the western horizon. The descending darkness of winter brings time to reflect on the cycle of life. John and Rosemary chose this name in recognition of the fact that the season is celebrated as part of the process of stewardship in harmony with nature.

It also signifies their pride in being New Zealanders, reflecting all the cultures of this land.