Top spots for checking out Matariki
If you are looking for the best spot to view Matariki, the Wellington City Council has produced a list of good viewing spots.
*James Stellin Memorial Park In Northland on Tinakori Hill, James Stellin Memorial Park has stunning 180-degree views over the city to the harbour as well as neat night sky viewing opportunities.
*Tawatawa Reserve is a large flat grassed area that is dog exercise-friendly and is located on Quebec Street, in between the suburbs of Owhiro Bay, Kingston, and Island Bay.
*The Ataturk Memorial Park lookout can be accessed from the Tarakena Bay car park on Breaker Bay Road.
* Waihinahina Park, located on Ladbrooke Drive in Newlands, is an open grassed area surrounded with regenerating bush – an ideal spot for stargazing Matariki on a clear night!
* Homebush Park on Homebush Road in Khandallah, is a hidden playground down a gravel track has breathtaking views over Wellington harbour and the wide-open skies above.
Matariki is found low on the horizon in the northeast of the sky. Try looking there between 5.30am-6.30am.
To find the cluster, first find the row of three stars of Tautoru, or Orion’s Belt (or The Pot). To find Pūanga (Rigel) look above Tautoru until you see the bright star.
From there, scan left until you find the bright orange star, Taumata-kuku (Alderbaran) and keep going until you hit a cluster of stars. That cluster is Matariki.
The Matariki star cluster, photographed by Stephen McArthur.
Neighbourhood Riddle Duel: Who Will Guess First?
There are three playing cards in a row. Can you name them with these clues?
There is a two to the right of a king.
A diamond will be found to the left of a spade.
An ace is to the left of a heart.
A heart is to the left of a spade.
Now, identify all three cards.
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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🎄Let's get festive 🎄
If you've decked your halls with all things jolly, we think it deserves to be shown off!
Share a photo of your home in its Christmassy glory and be in to win a spot prize. Some of these entries will be chosen as a finalist for the grand title of NZ's Merriest Home which Neighbourly members can vote on!
Entries close Sunday, 15th of December so share a photo today 📸
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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