Matariki – the Māori New Year – is a festive season in New Zealand.

For Māori, the rise of the Matariki or Pleiades constellation in the celestial skies above Aotearoa New Zealand signals a change in season - the arrival of the winter solstice and the countdown to spring and summer. Matariki was an important event on the lunar calendar that traditional Māori followed for planting, fishing and celebrations.
Matariki celebrations have evolved over time. Auckland local communities are now actively focusing on reviving old Māori customs and culture in a contemporary way.
This painting celebrates my love of fishing and sea food gathering. It is called Ko te ika o Matariki. The fish of Matariki.