Matariki
Matariki (the mother of the eight whetu in the constellation) is represented through the use of a multi-coloured digital cascade that transcends heaven and earth. This design is displayed on the Frank Kitts Park waterfront carpark glass doors.
According to legend, the whetu, Matariki was taken as a wife by the chief of the heavens, Rehua. Traditionally, if Matariki whetu was seen in the night sky, it would be a sign of good luck, peace, and wellbeing. If Matariki was spotted while a person was suffering from an illness, for example, it would be taken as a sign the person would soon recover.
Rehua, like Matariki, was also connected to health where the great lord of the stars was said to have the power to heal. It’s thanks to Rehua and Matariki that knowledge of wellbeing and medicine exists. And today, Matariki is considered to be a good omen of good fortune and vitality. The saying,‘Matariki, huarahi ki te oranga tangata’, translates to ‘Matariki, pathway to the wellbeing of man’.
The following designs are displayed on the Waituhi flags.