The crisp winter air carries a sense of anticipation at Archer Villages. The community buzzing with excitement, looking forward to Matariki weekend, a time when New Zealand honours its rich Māori heritage and welcomes the Māori New Year. The stars of the Matariki cluster rising from the 19th June, signalling a period of reflection, connection, and renewal. For the residents and staff at Archer Villages, this time resonates soundly with their core values.

Archer Villages is more than just a care home; it’s just like family. The spirit of compassion and togetherness is unmistakable, from the friendly conversations over morning tea to the collective joy of shared activities. The community has a warmth that goes beyond the walls of the residences, helping every resident feel cherished and significant.

Our residents will gather, led by chaplain Bronwyn, to celebrate Matariki, with an atmosphere of joy and reverence. Stories of ancestors and tales of old are shared, filling the room with a rich tapestry of heritage and memory. In this, Archer Villages finds reflection of their own ethos. Just as Matariki honours the people around us and the legacy of those who have passed, Archer Villages celebrates the lives of its residents, each story a special thread in the fabric of their community.

Throughout the lead in to the Matariki holiday, the themes of family, reflection, and looking forward are ever-present. It is a time to honour their connections—to their family, to their friends, and to the community they had built together.

In the glow of the evening, stories are told and laughter fills the air, it is clear that the spirit of Matariki is alive in Archer Villages. Just as the Matariki star cluster heralds the promise of a new year and new beginnings, Archer Villages embraces the future with hope and positivity. Each resident is not just a neighbour but almost family, their stories and lives interwoven with care and compassion.

As the festivities draw to a close, and the Matariki stars shine brightly in the night sky, there is a profound sense of belonging. Archer Villages demonstrates the true meaning of home—a place where every individual is valued, every story is honoured, and the future is welcomed with open arms.

In celebrating Matariki, Archer Villages, not only honour a cultural tradition but also reaffirm their commitment to the values that make their community so special.