a day ago
Opinion: a time to pause, reflect and connect with whānau
Rebecca Swindells. Photo: supplied
Matariki is the rising of the star cluster that marks the Māori New Year.
It gives us a chance to slow down, come together and ground our mahi in te ao Māori.
For those of us working in education, it is a powerful reminder that learning is not just about deadlines and assessments, it is about people, purpose and connection.
Matariki invites us to pause and prioritise our wellbeing.
We use this time to gather, share kai, reflect and plan.
It is about remembering those who have passed, celebrating what has been achieved and setting intentions for the future.
Not just in study, but in life.
This week at Otago Polytechnic, we have been celebrating Matariki and Puaka with a full lineup of events.
Some of our highlights have included creative activities such as mahi toi (arts) and tukutuku weaving, alongside daily reflection through Matariki huka nui and kapa haka performances.
We have also shared kai throughout the week, including "Hangī in the Hub" (prepared onsite), bringing together ākonga (students), kaimahi (staff) and our hāpori (community).
Matariki is a time to centre Māori knowledge and values such as kotahitanga (unity), manaakitanga (care) and wānanga (deep learning).
It reminds us that success looks different for everyone and that sometimes, taking a breath is just as important as pushing forward.
On a personal level, Matariki brings a gentle sense of peace.
I think of my tīpuna and those I have lost.
I share memories with my whānau and we reflect together on where we come from.
Sometimes we visit a memorial, sometimes we just sit and talk, but always, I feel that quiet connection across generations.
Matariki is not just a Māori version of the new year's celebrations.
It is a time to pause, reconnect and dream.
Whether you are in a classroom, at work or with whānau, I hope you find space to breathe, to remember and to look forward.
That is what Matariki is about.
