Beginning of Autumn

The Observance of Beginning of Autumn entails the celebration and acknowledgment of the arrival of the autumn season in the southern hemisphere. This cultural and agricultural event highlights the shift in cool temperatures, colour changes in foliage, and the harvesting of certain crops. As a significant seasonal milestone, the Observance of Beginning of Autumn also signifies the transition period from the warmth and longer days of summer to the cooler and shorter days of the coming winter months.

In New Zealand, the Observance of Beginning of Autumn bears historical context among both Māori and European settlers, reflecting their deeply-rooted connections with the environment and respect for natural cycles. For the Māori people, this period is called “Ngahuru,” representing the harvesting season, when they gather various crops and resources for winter. Similarly, European settlers acknowledged the beginning of autumn through activities such as apple picking and grape harvesting for wine production. The Observance of the Beginning of Autumn is essential for New Zealanders as it underlines their long-standing agricultural heritage and their connection to earth and nature.

New Zealanders observe the Beginning of Autumn in various ways, ranging from individualized preparations for winter to communal celebrations focusing on the season's bountiful harvest. Some popular activities include visiting local orchards and vineyards, hiking or strolling through colouful landscapes, attending autumn food festivals, or simply enjoying seasonal dishes featuring fresh local produce. For New Zealand, the Beginning of Autumn in the southern hemisphere typically transpires around the 1st of March, marking the season's advent with cooler temperatures and golden landscapes symbolizing the cycle of life renewal and rejuvenation.