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Celebrate Matariki

Celebrate Matariki at one of the many community-led events planned around the district.Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars, that rises in midwinter and for many Māori, heralds the start of the new year. Matariki is a time to celebrate, review the old year, think of loved ones past and present, and set goals for the year to come....

Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve given approval

Southern Wairarapa has been confirmed as the world’s newest Dark Sky Reserve known as the “gold standard” of dark sky places by a decision of the International Dark Sky Association (IDA).Five years after deciding the pristine dark skies of the region should be preserved, protected and enhanced, Wairarapa Dark Sky Association has this week been granted formal Dark Sky Reserve recognition by the world body.The decision underlines New Zealand as a world leader in dark sky development.The firs...