Another significant date in the New Zealand calendar is Matariki, and our Government is proud to have delivered on Labour's election commitment to establish a public holiday to better recognise Matariki – the start of the Māori New Year.
It's a chance for all Kiwis to share in this special time, remember those who have passed, and enjoy a mid-winter holiday with family and friends.
As New Zealand's first public holiday to specifically recognise and celebrate mātauranga Māori this is a historic moment for us all.
Matariki has become a time of celebration not just for tangata whenua, but for many people across the country, with communities coming together to pause, reflect and look to the future.
Research shows there are many benefits to public holidays, with business representatives noting Matariki will give a much-needed mid-year boost to the hospitality and tourism sectors.
As we begin welcoming back international tourists, Matariki is another chance for us to share Aotearoa's unique offerings with the world.
Our work to make Matariki a public holiday was built around genuine respect for Matariki matāuranga, te ao Māori, and a strong commitment to the Māori / Crown relationship.
To ensure we got this milestone correct, we were guided by our expert Matariki Advisory Group.
Informed by iwi and hapū, there will be a range of events around the country. I look forward to seeing how Matariki will be celebrated in Palmerston North.
This is a step forward many whānau thought they'd never see, and one I'm proud this Government has taken as New Zealand continues to weave together different cultures to create our unique national identity.
• Tangi Utikere is the MP for Palmerston North.
