Alongside the rest of Aotearoa, New Zealand, Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa celebrated Matariki Day on Friday, 14th July, wishing their manuhiri (guests), whānau (family) and loved ones all the very best for the year ahead.

Matariki is a star cluster that appears in the early morning sky in Aotearoa during the mid-winter months, marking the start of the Māori New Year. And Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa’s Tirotiro Whetū (our Star Gazing Pool) is the perfect place to try to catch a glimpse of the star cluster.

This year’s theme was Matariki Kāinga Hokia – Matariki calls you home. Traditionally, Matariki heralds a time for being together at home – reflecting on the year that has been, sharing kai (food), and spending time with whānau and friends.

Mātauranga Māori (ancestral knowledge and wisdom) is at the heart of celebrations for Matariki; it’s a time for:

• Remembrance – Honouring those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki
• Celebrating the present – Gathering together to give thanks for what we have
• Looking to the future – Looking forward to the promise of a new year

Wai Ariki would like to extend Matariki best wishes to the Belgravia Leisure family – Mānawatia a Matariki.

Visit the Wai Ariki website here.