2012  ‘Matariki’ – The Maori New Year

Matariki is the name of a small cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades that is visible around June each year in New Zealand and heralds the Māori New Year. In addition to many other traditions, Matariki was a time when people would gather to share kai, rituals, entertainment, hospitality and learnings. Given the timing and the focus on gathering together, Matariki was a perfect theme for the Kiwi Ball 2012.