Matariki, te taiao ora and Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush
The celebration of Matariki is intrinsically linked to te taiao, the natural world and the interconnection with people and nature. Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush fits well within te taiao. Let’s consider some of the Matariki cluster of stars, and their influence. Waipuna-ā-rangi welcomes the winter rains that nourish our ngahere (forest) and gardens. Waiti watches over the streams and waterfalls. Tupu-ā-rangi looks out for the ngahere, manu (birds) and all the other native wildlife that make our forests thrive, and which our community works to protect through weeding and predator control. Tupu-ā-nuku encourages us to consider what we plant, with special interest in our edible plants. In Ōtari, for just some examples, the native uhurere, or pūhā (pictured), kawakawa (pepper tree), kokihi (NZ spinach), and tī kōuka (cabbage tree) all thrive. And Matariki, the mother of all the stars in the cluster, gathers everyone together, connects them with our environment and inspires people to do the same. This is the essence of Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush. Come visit us. Mānawatia a Matariki.
Posted: 20 June 2025