Matariki Celebration

On the 12TH of June our school celebrated the Maori new year, Matariki. Matariki is the maori name for the constellation of stars known as the Seven Sisters. Matariki is visible from Aotearoa dropping below the horizon in April and reappearing in June.

To celebrate Matariki each class had to nominate three pupils to plant a New Zealand native plant. Our class was given a Merit Sinclairii otherwise known as a Puka tree. Puka is a large leafed evergreen tree known to New Zealand that grows to about 8 metres tall. Puka can also grow on cliffs with shallow, stony soils which suggests some tolerance of drought.

The leaves of this grand tropical-looking tree are glossy green and large, being 25-50 cm long and half as wide again. The tree grows into a rounded shape and will branch if encouraged. Puka is quite hardy in that it can withstand strong winds and salt, making it ideal for coastal areas. However, the tree does not enjoy heavy frosts.

Room 11 is proud of their Puka tree.