Kia ora John,
As we prepare to celebrate the second Matariki public holiday, I
wanted to wish you and your family all the best for the year
ahead.
Matariki marks the beginning of the Māori new year and has become a
time of celebration for many people across Aotearoa. It’s a distinctly
New Zealand moment - and makes for a distinctly New Zealand holiday
where we can come together to reflect, celebrate and plan for the
future.
Labour promised to make Matariki a public holiday so more people
could come together and celebrate this moment. It’s also an
opportunity to learn more about mātauranga Māori. I’m really proud
that Labour delivered on this commitment, and I know many of us are
looking forward to joining the celebrations.
Whānau have celebrated Matariki long before it became a public
holiday. My hope is that now, every New Zealander and their family
will be able to create their own traditions to mark this special
time.
Mānawatia a Matariki, Chris
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