From the “Naki” to Wintec and everything in between

George Thony is a full-time communications student at Wintec and a part-time farmer from the South Taranaki region. He’s the kind of character who loves to mix together his love of gumboots and suits.

Matariki is a new concept to George. He grew up near Parikihaka and celebrated Puanga, more commonly known as Rigel, (Arabic for foot) indicating its place in the constellation Orion. “Puanga kai rau” means an abundance food and gives credit to the fruits which Puanga brings.

George acknowledges that the celebration of Matariki is growing as New Zealanders develop an increasing understanding of Maoritanga.

He believes Matariki has a greater focus on family than Puanga. It is about coming together with the people that you love no matter if they are blood relatives or not and making them your family. For him, it is a time to think about who you consider to be close to you, who is in your whanau and friend group.

“It’s about who you chose to surround yourself with, you make them your family”

For George, Matariki is about remembering those who have passed away during the year and acknowledging their presence over a meal and celebrating the lives of those who have passed away.