Pōhutukawa is the star that reminds us of the people who have passed away. It helps us remember our loved ones who are no longer with us. During Matariki, we think about them and keep their memories in our hearts. This star is special because it connects us to the past and reminds us how important our whānau are, even if they are gone.

The Gift of Matariki

One cold winter morning, I woke up early and looked up at the sky. There they were the Matariki stars, glowing brightly like tiny diamonds scattered across the dark blanket of Ranginui. The frost-covered grass crunched under my feet as I stepped outside, my breath floating like steam in the icy air.

Suddenly, something magical happened. A soft wind whispered through the trees, and the stars shimmered even brighter. I heard a gentle voice calling my name. I turned and saw a glowing figure, cloaked in starlight, smiling at me.

“I am one of the Matariki,” she said. “You have shown kindness to your whānau and care for the land. Now we give you a gift.”

She reached out and placed a small, glowing stone in my hand. It felt warm, like a hug on a cold day. The moment I touched it, I saw flashes of memories—laughing with my cousins, helping Nana cook kai, planting trees with Dad.

Then the figure faded, and the stars returned to their quiet twinkle. I stood there, heart full of wonder, knowing that Matariki had shared something special with me: a reminder that the magic of the stars lives in our love, memories, and care for each other.