I didn't really know what Matariki was when I was a little girl, I remember doing art and singing a few songs and moving to the next Kaupapa.

I am 20 years old and for the first time I had experienced my first Hautapu.

it was 4am 2nd of July, myself along side Many went on the Lakeland Queen in Rotorua, we sailed to Mokoia island, I was tired, excited, happy and cold but I knew i wanted to be there so I stuck it out. We have arrived at Te Motu Tapu a TInirau (Mokoia Island) , Carried our torches to the other side in the island, listening to the birds chirp before the break of dawn, the wind blowing through the trees and the breath of movement as we made our way.

In the distance there were 3 bomb fires ahead of us waiting for us to gather around them, I place my hands towards to warmth and waited. A small korero about Matariki was shared stories about Who is Matariki, and why do we celebrate Matariki, I will never forget the korero that was shared that night.

A few moments later we were to share our loved ones names that have past over in there year i had mentioned my cousins name Whakarongotai ( she is in the picture framed above) followed by Karakia and Karanga that rose goosebumps, and shed many tears. I am proud to be Maori was my thought through the whole process. I am proud, I am proud. This Whakanuia was followed by a finger picking hangi and a fest on the boat as we made our way back to our homes . I will never forget this moment