Matariki

"Evening All"
here's a little letter that I wrote to the paper today ,you might be interested ,particularly if you live in NZ ! It could take the place of any other public holiday that we already have ,or it doesn't even have to be a holiday ,we could just DO IT !! spread the word if you are moved .

Dear Sir,
I see that there has been a private Members bill drawn out that proposes a public holiday to celebrate the middle of winter ,referred to by its Maori name of Matariki,a beautiful word .Now this is a great opportunity for the whole country, i hope that they grab the chance .
Most of our celebrations occur at warm times of the year ,viz, Christmas ,New Year,Waitangi day ,even Easter, when we don't particularly need cheering up ,and certainly don't need huge cooked meals ! There is nothing in the middle of winter to brighten up the generally depressive weather and definitely depressive population .The Northern hemisphere has got it right !!
Now what I would like to suggest is that we take it one step further ,ban Guy Fawkes back to his musty cellar
and take the period of Matariki as our time for fireworks . This will have many advantages not the least of will be bonfires at 5-6pm [kids in bed by 8] ,no accidental grass fires and the chance to congregate around a nice warm fire . What a beautiful way to welcome back the sun !
Although it is a Maori Party bill,and Matariki is an appropriate name ,I see it as a universal celebration for the whole country to enjoy together ,a wonderfully wild and wacky way to warm up our spirits with bonfires and hot wine .
Go for it you politicians,esp.Mr Rahui Katene,do something positive for the population for a change !
Sincerely ....Bob L deBerry Cambrian