February is here! While the will hopefully remain for a few more weeks in the southern hemisphere, its the perfect time to get started on all your essential winter knits. And for those living in the northern hemisphere, the wonderful Hōtoke Hot Water Bottle Cover is the perfect way to stay cozy!
Simply put, Hōtoke translates to Winter in Māori. Winter in New Zealand takes place from June to August where residence can expect much colder weather, rain around the North Islands and breathtaking snowy mountain ranges.
Discover Winter in New Zealand has lots of fantastic information on this time of year including what temperatures to expect in each area, packing essentials, top winter activities and heaps more travel tips!
As the colder weather arrives, so does Matariki, the celebration of the Māori new year. Traditionally, traditionally tohunga (an expert) will use this time of year to make a prediction for next years harvest based on the stars.
If bright stars were spotted in the sky at this time of year, that would indicate a favourable season for planting, predicting a good harvest to come. However, if the stars were unclear or spotted close together, this was seen as a negative tohu (sign), that the harvest may not be so fruitful if planted at this time. This would then guide the time for planting crops.
Furthermore, the Maramataka (Māori seasonal calendar) was used as a guide for the best times to head out fishing, hunting and/or plant crops.
Please enjoy this cozy knit, brining style and comfort to your traditional hot water bottle. The beautiful cable design can be created in any of our wonderfull Kauri Worsted shades.
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