The Caring Stars of Matariki

“Everything changes, tamariki ma,” says Grandma. “But the stars will always guide us.”

Sam and Te Rerehua adore Te Mata Hapuku, its wild winds, stony shores, and the treasures the waves push onto the beach. But this Matariki feels different. Poua is gone and the children miss him deeply. As they wait for the rising of the star cluster, Grandma teaches them about two caring whetu: Pohutukawa, who watches over loved ones who have died, and Hiwa i te Rangi, the star of hopes and wishes.<…