What a milestone to have Matariki public holiday passed in Parliament. The celebration is underpinned by values that include mana taiao - environmental awareness. To me it's exciting to have a holiday that reminds us to tune in to environmental awareness. This is not just a day off work, it's so much more. For me, June 24 will be a time to cherish and enjoy what we have here in the Bay of Plenty. A reminder to respect our environment and do all we can to safe-keep it.

Other values celebrated are aroha (love), whakamaharatanga (remembrance), kotahitanga (unity), manaakitanga (caring), tohatoha (sharing), hākari (feasting), wānanga (discussion), noho tahi (coming together), atawhaitanga (kindness), whakanui (celebrations) and tuakiritanga (identity). Matariki is not a day to be alone.

K Macmillan, Welcome Bay.