Nukutawhiti Issue 20 2023

IT’S

It’s a new day, a deep breath, a sweaty face, a bootcamp, a catch-up, a challenge, a realisation, a conversation, a push and a pull, a moment of peace, a struggle and a win, a feeling, a superpower, a soundtrack and a stage, a weight plate, a new limit, a grind, a flex, a heavy set, a commitment, a culture, a community, a way of life, a second home, a place to discover your playground.

TUHINGA

Yo, whakarongo mai ki te ata hōu o Nukutawhiti, i kitea e te kitenga o Te Hoata Mihaka Rāta. Engari, he pukapuka whakakata ake tēnei i ngā tau katoa i mua. He kōwhiri ake na au, na, i te mea kua hiahia tātou ki te whakakore i te whakamataku, me te hiahia ahau kia kaha te whakakōrero. Ko au te kaiwhakaputa pukapuka nā te mea ko wai ahau, me taku pūkenga ki te kōrero pūrākau. Na reira, koinei te mahi ka whakakōrero ahau. Kei te whakakōrero i ngā pūrākau whakamā.

I grew up, like so many of you, sitting happily in the knowledge that I was Māori and that was enough. Understand this, it’s hearty in the North for half-cast kids. Not in the ways you think but because we’re luckier. There’s this level of privilege that comes with passing in spaces that require a level of sophistication. By that, I mean the waiting room at WINZ.

“Oh, that’s YOUR son? Well come along this way sir, we can help you.” As my brown father takes me and my brother to sit across a case-manager who’s cast all but a singular cursory glance at his lengthy file. Nodding as he asks for money to purchase a little kai–he makes sure to not look them too directly in the eye. But you can’t help but notice she looks at you with a sad face, sympathising

with you as if you’re in some dire situation. White saviour complex much?

I grew up, like some of you, all over the place. Never anywhere longer than a year as my pop jumped from job to job and tried to hold it down for his sons. Showing what it was like for a man to provide for his whānau, making sure that we had kai and clothes so we could make the varying levels of hīkoi to and from school. We were happy kids, making sure to be each other’s best friends as it’s hard to make those connections when you’re changing schools.

Being Māori, for me, has always been about connecting with my tūpuna in any way possible. Wearing my taonga, or even just listening to waiata māori–everything is connected and being one with the whenua. But never stop moving forward.

I grew up, like all of you should have, a MASSIVE warriors fan. Thanks Dad for that one, because this may be our year my bros. Up the Wahs.

Hei tēnei, e koro mā. Mihi nui ki a koe mō te whakapau katoa e koe mōku me ōku teina. Ahakoa kāore koe i te whakararuraru, i whakaako koe i ahau kia whai i te tāne. Aroha atu au ki a koe, e koro mā.

Wahi Matua

Māori film-making is changing – and I don’t mean to be so damn dramatic about that, but with the influx of mainstream media influencing our mahi-toi, why wouldn’t we consider this influence as a form of adaptation? For many, the only portrayal of Māori in film was through the likes of ‘Once Were Warriors’ and ‘River Queen’, films that were made for the outward eye, for the general public to look in on in amusement as they struggle to connect with those ‘savage people’ that were here first. This isn’t any hate to Pākehā, but a testament to the filmmakers that are breaking a cycle of Pākehā serving cinema.

Merata Mita, in case you aren’t aware, is a pioneer of Māori cinema and an important figurehead for the development of who Māori are in film today. Mita was the first indigenous woman and the first woman in Aotearoa New Zealand to solely write and direct a dramatic feature film, with her production of Mauri (1988). I shouldn’t have to explain to you the significance of why this is so important or what that meant for wāhine Māori filmmakers and those in film. You now have the likes of Chelsea Winstanley, Ainsley Gardiner, Briar Grace-Smith etc. Wāhine who are powerhouses in their fields, breaking the chain of unsuccessful ventures and telling important stories.

Waru

(2018)

If you haven’t watched this film, please click away from this article and come back once you have. Waru, while juvenile in its production, is an amalgamation of kōrero paki from 8 wāhine Māori, told through the same central focus of child abuse. It’s told beautifully through well-crafted cinematography and generally impressive ‘hide the lead’ storytelling. The directors involved were; Ainsley Gardiner, Casey Kaa, Renae Maihi, Awanui Simich-Pene, Briar Grace Smith, Paula Whetu Jones, Chelsea Winstanley & Katie Wolfe. Their names, along with their storytelling, are compelling – carrying so much mana as they understood the importance of Waru and the lives it would ultimately touch.

Waru is an exceptional love story about the lives of children lost to violence or neglect in a broken system. Growing up, my life could be told through some of the

shorter segments in the film – specifically the Mum with WINZ on the phone, struggling to find kai for her tamariki but holding her own as she continues to fight. As Māori, we understand the pain through shared wairua, that’s why films are significant for telling our stories. But not as a call to action, looking for white saviours to power through and uplift us in an effort to appease their guilt. Instead, as testaments to the strengths of our people in their stories.

Whina (2022)

Now to take a moment and praise some of our Wāhine Māori actresses. Their performances on and off screen are shaping our current interpretation of the visual arts. Before having seen Whina, I just knew in my soul that Whaea Rena Owen and Aunty Miriama McDowell were going to bring the house down with their performances. But what I wouldn’t expect is the retelling of a story I knew, though told through the impression of Paula Whetu Jones and James Napier Robertson – two terrific directors who brought the entire piece to life. The importance and relevance of seeing Aotearoa's history play out through the lens of Māori is something that shouldn’t even be in question. I’ve failed to mention Tioreore Ngatai Melbourne, as she is slowly becoming one of my favourite wāhine Māori on screen. Playing against battle veterans in a film that doesn’t stop to let you breathe, it’s relentless in its storytelling, allowing Dame Whina’s story to ring true for us all.

This is one of those films that sits with you, not because of the heavy nature, but the value in performance. There’s a genuinely stellar cast with James Rolleston making an appearance, reminding us why we loved the bright eyed boy from so many years ago. Whina is a dramatic piece, that much is true, but it’s an important piece of history that needed a freshen up and to get slapped with an Auteur touch of approval. One thing I’ll recommend is, take some damn tissues my bro.

Cousins (2021)

Far out, I didn’t expect for Cousins to become such an integral part of film history as a film solely

“The public is conditioned to accept negative images of the Māori. The values and worth of Māori people are continually overlooked.”

- Merata Mita

about whānau, but it changed my impression on countless issues regarding storytelling and how language is used. Cousins is told through a very impure non-linear kōrero paki, the timeline bouncing through childhood and into adulthood. It’s not an Arrival timeline, where the edges are blurred, but it’s fractured as a response to the broken psyche of Mata (Tanea Heke). The film is about 3 cousins and their intertwining lives, how they became who they are in connection to each other. That connection is strong enough to span their lifetimes, demanding them to reunite. The film is held together by one of the strongest casts, but made by the aforementioned Briar Grace-Smith and Ainsley Gardiner. By now I’m sure you’re sick of hearing me rattle on about the wāhine Māori filmmakers that make up our film industry but it’s just because they’re that fucking good.

Cousins is an important film for Māori that were raised in the lost generation, helping them to heal some of the damage done thanks to the Government and their attempt to stamp out the embers of a once strong people. But the film, and history, is proof of Māori resilience. They understand wairua and connection to the whenua more than those who are not of this land. Mata, Makareta and Missy represent the backbone of Māori and they show the strength we hold when we come together. Grace-Smith and Gardiner are a dream team, weaving their Auteur spirit into the film and creating a visually stunning mahi toi that is appreciated in all facets.

The Dead Lands (2014)

Films in complete Te Reo Māori seem daunting. Shit I reckon they would’ve struggled to find the funding to create this, but the result is nothing short of breath-taking excellence. The Dead Lands is the story of Hongi fighting to avenge the murder of his Pāpā at the hands of a brutal iwi who invade their marae. This film is fucking relentless, and it’s just action packed from hilt to hilt. Throughout the film you can’t help but

hold your breath at some of the more claustrophobic shots, understanding the anxiety of Hongi as he battles mental strength against that of Lawrence Makoare’s The Warrior. Fijian director, Toa Fraser, heads the production and what a masterful production it is. The appreciation Fraser has for the Māori process, and understanding kaupapa around it, is just a testament to the respect polynesian tangata have for one another.

I thought it pertinent to mention a non-māori filmmaker and their producing of predominantly (arguably solely) Māori works. There’s an age-old argument in Journalism of who can write about what. But there's a quote from Rosie Remmerswaal “Sometimes I say, ‘Kāore ōku toto Māori, engari ko Aotearoa te whenua i whakatipu mai i a au. I don’t have any Māori blood, but Aotearoa is the land that raised me.’” There shouldn’t be an issue when it comes to helping and aiding in the production of Māori works - within reason. With The Dead Lands, Fraser had a production team of Māori a mile long, has a deep understanding of kaupapa Māori and understands the plight of Māori. Do I think that there was a Māori capable of producing the film to the same, if not better, quality? Absolutely! But diminishing the value of Māori stories being told on a global stage seems counterproductive.

Now you see, this entire piece is an ode to the power in Māori film-making and kōrero paki. As an aspiring Māori artist (formerly film-maker, looking at you Te Iwi o Te Awa) I find great value and pride in watching, and supporting, the efforts of Tangata Whenua. Someone very close to me once said,

Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa

(Let us keep together, not far apart)

Māori filmmaking is something that is underappreciated - but it’s something that is right there. So just get out of your head and start delving into the great world that is Māori cinema, you won’t regret it e kare.

Kupu Whakaatu Feature

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Feature Kupu Whakaatu

As Māori, it’s nothing new to have a bunch of random politicians, or famous white men, say random shit that’s just laughable. But where else can you find a collection of dumb quotes that we can all sit and laugh at together. Nexus always has you covered in that regard, so here it is. The penultimate list of the dumbest things that famous-ish kiwis have said that’s just straight out racist. It’s okay though because their PR team has a back catalogue of notes app apologies waiting to be published.

"While on the subject of Maoridom, rather than make kids learn the language, here's a much better idea. We should introduce a new public holiday, Maori Gratitude Day, in place of the much disdained Waitangi Day."

Bob Jones

“stupid

Barry

“The good news was that I was having dinner with Ngati Porou as opposed to their neighbouring iwi, which is Tūhoe, in which case I would have been the dinner, which wouldn’t have been quite so attractive.”

John Key

“We live in New Zealand not Aotearoa”

Judith Collins

black bitch’’

Williams

“suckinguptotheleftMāori-lovingagenda”StuartNash

Georgie Dansey

for Hamilton East

Authorised by Rob Salmond, 187 Featherston Street, Wellington.

I bet you thought that this issue was going to be all social justice and reclaiming everything. And it is. But it’s also a magazine made by a couple of clueless blokes that just want to have a laugh. The NRL has been revitalised, and we’ve seen a massive influx of fans streaming the almighty sport. While Union is the backbone for us, let’s look onto what’s entertaining.

He’s a champion, and that matters. Because it does.

Not a Raiders fan, but Tapine averaged a 165m, 69 post-contact, along with a tackle efficiency of 95%. I mean, come on.

Controversial choice, I know, but this guy is talented.

I just like him, that’s all really. Funny guy

Crichton are easily the most entertaining men in the league. I won’t show bias, because I have none but they’re just fucking fun to watch.

Critta and Bizza

Brian To'o and Stephen

Joseph Tapine

Maika Sivo

Tohu Harris

Jarome Luai

If you dislike DWZ, then you dislike me. Gap.

He’s a bit of a grub but you cannot fault his spirit. He fights for those who can’t, but battles those that shouldn’t. Trell Milk is here to stay, and good luck fullas.

He’s a bit of a grub but you cannot fault his spirit. He fights for those who can’t, but battles those that shouldn’t. Trell Milk is here to stay, and good luck fullas.

Selwyn Cobbo is easily one of the strongest men in the league, and he’s representing his people and all indigenous people in the best way possible. Listen up king, we’re all backing you (even if we’re not all fans of the broncos)

Latrell Mitchell

Jordan Riki

Shaun Johnson

A king. No words.

Cobbo

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak

Feature Kupu Whakaatu

Whether you are for or against the idea of co-governance, the mere mention of it is enough to start a verbal brawl destined to divide your flat. That is why politicians are using it. It creates a wedge issue and polarises people, often based on emotion alone. Anyone who has visited the Herald comments section, or even grazed over some of the comments on our Grey Street video, knows it’s working. So, with emotion high and people shouting over an issue many don’t know the fundamentals of, what are the actual facts of co-governance?

We need to start by looking at the Treaty of Waitangi, an agreement between the Crown and Māori. We all know this. It is the foundational document of our country and has been labelled, legally, as part of the fabric of our society.

Let’s go deeper. Te Tiriti o Waitangi, The Māori version of the Treaty, which was almost the only document signed by Māori, guaranteed tangata whenua tino rangatiratanga (or self-determination). Unfortunately, after some sneaky judges, lawyers, and legislators, the Treaty as it is written cannot be used as law unless it is incorporated directly into legislation. This is how we came to the ‘principles’ of the Treaty - one of which is partnership.

So whether you want to look at the document itself or its principles, co-governance has seemed a logical next step by many for acknowledging the Treaty. Co-governance, foundationally, is ensuring an equal say around societal decisions between the parties of the Treaty: Tangata Whenua and the Crown. Sounds pretty simple.

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples recognisesunderpinned by our inherent right of self-determination - countries should “consult

and cooperate in good faith with the indigenous peoples concerned through their own representative institutions in order to obtain their free, prior and informed consent.”

Put simply, the government should have a yarn with the indigenous population to get their approval on important issues. Especially ones concerning them. New Zealand, originally did not ascend to this declaration but later recognised their support of this document, bar a few provisions, including this previously mentioned one.

Professor Valmaine Toki, the first New Zealander to be appointed to United Nations Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, proposes by selectively supporting provisions of a document outlining rights, Aotearoa is undermining the core of the document. Despite this debate about the extent to which New Zealand recognises the underpinning ideas of co-governance in international law, our domestic legal system also says the Crown should act in good faith with Māori in decisions that concern them. So, there’s certainly a foundation for the argument for co-governance.

This has actually been reflected in our country. Co-goverannce is in many things around us, just not to the national extent that is being appealed for. The governance of the Whanganui, Waipā, and Waikato Awa, as well as Te Urewera, are all managed under a style of co-governance. All have organisations set up to look over them made up of representatives from Tangata Whenua and the Crown. They do so to consider all relevant opinions. This means that the Crown and Māori get an equal say around the table when it comes to managing these areas. I’m sure it's not as painless as it sounds but the point is, co-governance is nothing new and already reflected in our communities today.

Those who oppose, most notably the Act party, say it is undemocratic. Mainly based on its conception that it could afford a group of people with more say than another. They rely mainly on the English version of the treaty which would see Māori as ceding their sovereignty. Te Pati Māori and Green, some of the biggest promoters of Co-governance, use Te Tiriti (the Māori version of the Treaty) based governance and decision making. Once again, it is important to note that of the over 500 Māori who signed the agreement, only 39 Māori signed the English version, and only at the Waikato Heads and Manukau.

So there it is. It is all about giving the parties of the Treaty and our bicultural nation, an equal say, as guaranteed to them by the document signed to set up the very nation we call home. To not acknowledge the Treaty is to not acknowledge the reason our nation legitimately exists today.

Paraaoa Parai

Kinaki (ingredients):

2 ngã kapu o puehu paraoa (high grade flour)

1 ¼ ngã tipune o Thi (yeast)

½ ngã tipune o huka (sugar)

1 ngã tipune o tote (salt)

1 1 ngã kapu o wai mahana (warm water}

Noni (Canola oil) - mō te mahi parai (for frying)

Cookware

Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot

Taera (Method):

In a oko (bowl), mix together the puehu paraoa, īhi, huka and tote. Slowly add the wai mahana while mixing until a soft dough forms.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and kauto (knead) for 5 mineti (minutes) or until the dough is mākohakoha (smooth). Transfer to an oiled oko, cover, and leave to proof in a warm place for 45-60 mineti or until doubled in size.

Once the dough has doubled in size, place onto a floured

surface and roll out to a 1-2 cm thickness. Cut Into your desired shapes or number of pieces, then deep fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and fluffy in the centre. Once cooked, place onto a wire rack set on a lined tray to drain.

Serve the paraoa parai alongside your favourite sides or with your desired toppings

Te Kaauru

Maramara Kōrero Column

What’s your all time favourite thing you’ve captured?

showcases young up and coming creatives who are Indigenous and Māori absolutely killing their creative niches, showing our rangatahi that there are more options than the social norm to become successful in your own right.

What’s your story my bro? How did you first pick up a camera, what’s the go?

Izzy @ Juicy Fest 2022: This particular photo will always be a highlight for me as it is attached to a fond memory of me first meeting Izzy who I really do admire. Not only that but the fact that during this time, Xzibit was absolutely hyping up the crowd and Izzy coming out on stage just took it to another level. An unforgettable moment in my career and life. There is something about going out there and working while vibing with the atmosphere of the crowd and collaborating and feeling the energy of the artist performing. It is an energy that is just sooo exciting and can’t be mimicked in any way. Live Shows, Festivals and Concerts are definitely a favourite to capture and most likely where I have produced some of my favourite material to date.

What’s the dream as a creative? Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I’ve been creating content for as long as 23 years now going from Fashion to Design and through to now doing Photo and Video Content.

The Dream is to execute my list set out for the dream clients and contract I would love to take a hold of. But beyond that I want to have built the largest Indigenous Creative Agency in NZ and give young Māori the opportunity to learn and execute in this space using the mediums of technology they are already using and help them to monetise those current habits. Then after scaling my business, helping communities and rangatahi achieve their vision, as I would have done.

I had been doing content for fun for a while but it wasn’t until my partner bought me my first camera for my birthday in 2022 and when it changed the narrative from me, it went from being a hobby to having the potential to be something bigger with my creative skills.

Who are some fellow creatives that you’re vibing with at the moment?

There are soo many, waay too many to count. As I get deeper and deeper into the industry I find myself loving other creatives, within different industries, and not only their creative work but their work ethic is super inspiring.

After that, I experimented with photography, a friend noticed me learning and asked me to work for his agency to upskill myself, I didn’t think much of it at the time Being a māori artist, do you find that this guides your process or is it a leading part of it?

What does your process, if at all, look like?

How do you start? Are there any must haves involved? When I am on a shoot, more often than not it isn’t really ‘planned out’ per se (my clients must hate it), I let the wairua from the kaupapa I am a part of take over and I shoot according to my environment. Some of my best work has been produced in the spaces where I have had the most freedom to go out and just shoot with nothing holding back.

Being Māori does help me to deeply understand the kaupapa I work in. I mainly deal with kaupapa Māori so loving to be a part of wānanga and catching that mātauranga, with the cultural understanding I have it helps me know what to capture as well as when not to shoot and understanding the Tikanga behind it.

Outside of kaupapa Māori, being Māori is like my power, being a super connector, and sponge and making it easy to build relationships just like I would on the marae and really shining light on the concept of whakawhanungatanga and applying it everywhere.

If you could create a campaign where you were lead creative, what would that look like?

When I am on most client shoots in another context I am very particular in terms of my workflow, I shoot and edit on the fly and would try to deliver within the day to my client, other times and client require a different level of attention and would take more time to develop the end result.

Who would be involved?

It would probably be a Kapa Haka to the world campaign of some sort showcasing the power Kapa Haka has in today's day and age. Outside of that I would love to create a campaign that

Pānui Whakaahua

Keep you bio, but have your say though

"Tino Rangatiratanga" is in your instagram bio, but you haven't even voted. For centuries, our tupuna have fought for the privileges we are spoonfed... Forever our parents have made sacrifices so that we may lead better lives.

So tell me why you have not registered to vote? Tell me why rangatahi are the least enrolled generation of Aotearoa?

Traditionally, Maori aren't listened to. Just in legislation itself, you can see that there was clearly a representation issue:

Tohunga suppression Act 1907

Native Schools Act 1867

New Zealand Settlement Act 1863

Fortunately, we're now in a position to vote for change. This is why I have partnered with the New Zealand Maori Council (Te Kaunihera Maori) - to advocate to our youth that we must vote. We're running a giveaway on my Instagram, giving away a $500 Noel Leemings voucher every Monday until the election. Make sure to check it out!

You can keep your bio as it is, just make sure to post on your story tagging @maorimillionaire_ to show that you're registered. Words are just words but voting is action for change. Be the change and register to vote.

Te Kahukura Boyton

Te Kahukura Boyton Te

Kahukura Boyton

Te Reo o Te Taiao

Ko te wai te toto o te whenua, ko te whenua te toto o te tangata…water is the blood of the land, and land is the blood of the people.

He whakaaro Māori - we as tāngata are intrinsically embedded into the fabrics of the environment and are but one thread within the realm of Te Ao Mārama. Our knowledge, belief systems, and worldviews are rooted at the center of our taiao which bonds all elements of our Māori identity.

I exist, not as a product of the environment, but rather an extension, a manifestation. You exist, not as a product of the environment, but rather an extension, a manifestation. Therefore, if we are environmental manifestations culminated by our waters and lands and tribes and mountains and ancestors; can you hear them calling? They call loudly and softly. They speak in chants and incantations. They scream in melodies. They search for our ears, telling us to ‘listen to my language, for I am you and you are me’.

In the face of climate change and environmental degradation, the language of our taiao must be heard. They call for us in urgency. Call for us to reclaim our reciprocal relationship with ngā mana o te atua, ngā mana o te tāngata, and ngā mana o te taiao. Call for us to be

active kaitiaki once again. Call for us to return home to the sustenance of our ūkaipō, so we can provide sustenance for them too.

Our waters and lands and tribes and mountains and ancestors are calling; can you hear them?

Te Tini o Hakuturi

Te Taiao

Column Maramara Kōrero

Reading List

Hoata Rāta

Edmonds Taku Puka Tohutao Tuatahi

Ngatokimatawhaorua: The biography of a waka

Toku Whanau Rerehua: My Beautiful Family

Billy Bush: A front row view on life

Hiwa: Contemporary Maori Short Stories

Nga Kupu Wero

Te Kooti's Last Foray

Te Awa o Kupu

Maramara Kōrero Column

Reading List

The whakapapa effect

Te Tini o Hakuturi

Ki te kōpikopiko kua ngaro atu rā ki te pō, ngā totara haemata, ngā kākā tarahae. E tangi tonu ana ngā mate tuatini o te wā e pikaungia ana e tēnā e tēnā o tātou.Tae atu rā ki te kāhui kura kua tau atu ki tua o pae mahara. Haere ki te pūtahi nui a Rehua, ki te poutūtanga nui o Pipiri, ki te urunga tē taka, ki te moenga tē whakaarahia. Waiho mā mātou e tangi apakura atu nei. Rātou ki te pō, tātou ki te ao. Wairua mauri ora.

Te oranga o Te Reo Māori

I te mutunga iho he kai mā te hinengaro, mā te ngākau, mā te wairua. Ko tāku nei, me whakatenatena i te hunga ngākau hihiri kia āta tirohia ki ngā ahuatanga o te ao hou. Ki ngā mātāpuna a te Māori, kia rangona i te rerehua o te reo Māori, otira, me tiro atu ki ngā tamariki e whakahua i te reo Māori ki roto i ngā kura reo Māori. Mōku ake, kia kaua tātou e pana a tātou tamariki mokopuna ki ngā kura reo Māori me te whakatau; kua ea te taha ki ngā mātua, ma ngā kaioako e whakaora Te Reo Māori o roto te tamaiti. Ko te raru, ka hore Te Reo Māori e mokowhiti atu ki te kainga, ka noho tuarua kē Te Reo Māori, a, kua riro pai te reo pākeha ki te kainga. Me ū tonu te reo Māori i mua i te kura , ka mutu, a muri i te kura. Me pēnei te kōrero, ko te reo o Tangaroa e ngunguru ana ao te pō, pō te ao. Ko te reo o ngāi Māori me kōrero ao te pō, pō te ao. He koha mai ngā matua tipuna. Nā rātou Te Reo Māori i tuku kia rere ki te marea. Kia mōhio mai ki ngā kaupapa oneone, ki ngā whakapataritari mo Te Reo Māori te take.

Te kounga o Te Reo Māori

Mā te tutuki i te oranga o te reo Māori ka whai whakaaro mo tēnei mea te kounga o te reo Māori. Whakarongo

Pīkari ana te taringa ki te tangi o te manu kui, kui, whiti, whiti ora. Ko te reo o te manu he taonga, ko te reo o te rākau he taonga, ko te reo o te ira tangata he taonga. Nā, he mea kaore ōku mātua i pakeke ake i te reo Māori nei. Ki tērā, e pūrangiaho ki ngā uauatanga o tēnei mea

te ako i te reo Māori. Nā, kua puea nei te uru pounamu, he aha tēnei mea te te kounga o te reo Māori? Moku ake, Me hoki atu ki ngā kawariki o te wao nui ā Tāne, kei reira ngā tauira mo tātou. Ka tahuri atu ki te rākau paina me te rākau maire. Ko te rākau maire he mārō, he waoku, he taimaha. Nā te kounga o te rākau maire, ka waihanga o tātou mātua tupuna i ngā taonga whawhai pērā ki te taiaha, te patu, te koi. Ko te painga o te rākau paina hei whakaora i te ahi noa iho. Ki te kore tātou e kōrero ana i te reo kia tika, ka horapa haere ngā hapa i te motu whānui anō nei he mate urutā. Ki te kore tātou e hākautia te reo kia tika, kia rere, kia Māori, ka mimiti, ā, ka ngaro. Me pehea te whakatika? Me pēnei te kōrero a ō whātua ‘kei tō tūrangawaewae te reo Māori e ora ana. Mā te whakarongo, mā te kōrero ka whakatutuki i te māramatanga. He manako te koura e kore ai.

He mokopuna ahau i hua mai, i waimarie mai te tipu ki roto i te kohanga reo, kura kaupapa Māori, ka mutu, te mātotoru o te Aho Matua. Ko tāku nei, e maioha atu ki ōku mātua, kuia, kaumātua i parahia te huarahi mōku kia tukuna to tātou reo rangatira kia rere. Nā rātou i akiaki taku reanga kia Māori te tu, kia Māori te noho, kia Māori te ahua, kia Māori i ngā wā katoa, kia toitu te mana Māori motuhake. Hākoa kua whakatakotoria te kākano o wheuaua, ko te manako ia ka puawai hei rākau taumatua mō hirikapo.

Ko tā te reo Māori, he kaupapa hei rangahua i te wairua, hei whakarīrā anō hoki i te nape here tangata, kia toitū te mana, kia toitū Te Reo Māori. Mei kore ngā ringa whero onamata, ka noho kiko kore te hunga hikaka ki ngā hītori me ngā whakapapa. Nō reira kua renarena te taukaea o rātou kua ngaro atu ki te pō ki te hunga morehu e ngākau hihiko nei. Kia tipu, kia rea, kia puāwaitia tō tātou reo kāmehameha. Kei a tātou te mahi rangiamua kia maimoatia ngā tāonga tuku iho, i ngā tikanga e whakamana nei i tōku ao Māori, i toku mana motuhake. Turou hawaiki!

Feature Kupu Whakaatu

we cant see the river from the pa but we can see the river in our heads

we can hear its singing we can hear its voice we can feel its melodies every night the river it calls out to all its mokos telling us

moko you cant see me but i am here strong moko you dont often feel me but i am here soft moko imagine the flow of my water compare it to the flow in your veins our bodies have known each other since the waka first pulled into my shores

shut your eyes and see me touch your veins and feel me we give each other this life

i am free no man can grab me

ko koe ko te awa ko te awa ko koe

i am you you are me we are both free

Kupu Whakaatu

Feature

TE PŌARI O TE KĀURU 2024

Broke my heart but made me so dang happy

We Are Still Here

Hoata Rāta

I’ll be honest, I went into this flick without any prior knowledge or understanding of what it was even about. I’d heard maybe one or two comments about it but nothing past that it was indigenous stories being told through different lenses. Get in mate, can’t go wrong with a couple of stories that aren’t centred around casting indigenous people as angry SJWs with a passion for fucking shit up. Which we are, and this movie was that. But honestly? In the best ways possible.

With 8 unique stories, it’s sort of a hard one to break down without diminishing different stories and not putting enough emphasis on the different directors. But here’s the low-down. It’s 8 Australasian stories as a response to the 250th anniversary of the Second voyage of James Cook. 10 directors came together to combat the ensuing celebrations for the man that took it all. There’s a mixture of style, medium and story-telling techniques. I’m going to try and contain my excitement without letting it spill over the top, so here goes.

The first story you’re introduced to is a mixed media flick, a mix of animation and live-action. Rotoscoping isn’t nearly used enough in film but this one showed you EXACTLY how it should be used. There’s no words shared between wāhine as they show early stages of indigenous persons utilising the moana to do their fishing–gathering the kai for their whānau. This is all before their waka is intruded by the arrival of Cook. The shots have a mix of eerily distant wails and wind and thefaked diegetic sound that conveys the crashing of the waves and the water hitting the sides of the devastation of their people. Danielle Maclean is a MASTER of weaving sound and visuals in a way that feels like a novel coming to life.

How do you follow that strong open, DENA MOTHERFREAKING CURTIS. With their heart-wrenching storytelling around early settlers in Australia, one man specifically, murdering and pillaging an entire mob. From start to finish, you can’t help but hold your breath in the hopes that there’s a break to absorb what happened. You don’t, trust me on this. The way Curtis is able to distinguish

the level of power from the first shots, having the settler literally above the aboriginal people–it’s horrifying. But you really can’t look away, admiring the absolute relentlessness to accurately tell the story. They command you to look at them, to understand the plight and struggle they faced. They continue to face.

Richard Curtis and Tim Worrall introduce the Māori storytelling with the next part, a struggling hui between two Iwi Māori as to whether they join the war for their people. There’s one sequence I want to highlight. Tioreore Ngatai and her delivery of the Haka in support for fighting with her people. She’s a rare gem and a massive asset for the future of Māori filmmaking. The entire film is impressive, with the colouring that’s standard with Māori film–dark and brooding. It’s a devastating watch, knowing the outcome and death that came with it. Ngatai leads the film with the mana that it deserved. I won’t speak on it in great depth because it’s something you need to watch to feel. But Richard and Tim, thank you.

Gallipoli, 1915. Our Sāmoan fighters are featured finally. The distraught of them being sent to war, fighting for land that isn’t theirs. For people that don’t necessarily see them as equals. For a country hell-bent on diminishing the culture of Sāmoa. Holy shit. MIki Magasiva and Maria Gaoa took what was a fairly simple premise and turned it into a visually stimulating story that just breaks you. The actor (who I can’t find only) was genuinely devastating to watch–his face just breaking you as he fears for his life.

Invasion Day. I cannot rewatch this. Not because it’s bad, because it’s marvelous, but because it’s so fucking

heartbreaking. The two characters have major chemistry, and I can’t look away. There’s a scene of some pretty violent racism on the two aboriginal wāhine as they stand outside Captain Cook’s home–anticipating the Invasion Day protest. One of whom sadly passes away, it’s hard to watch, and I can’t rewatch it. But it’s just breathtaking. Tracey Rigney, shows up and shows out with a truly beautiful ode to the strength of a mother and the power of anger. Or revenge,

Renae Maihi delivers the most violent and the darkest of the films. It depicts the arrests and violence surrounding the Springbok tour protest in the 80’s, with Māori men thrown into jail–sitting in the rain. The police are violent, relentless and angry towards the tāne māori with a heavy fist falling down on them. You can’t help but wince as you watch them fight back in a hopeless attempt to protect themselves. It’s heartwrenching.

Final film is just so freaking cute. Aside from the racism and police-hatred towards aboriginal people. It’s a love story that has undertones (or overtones). But in the end, it’s just a story of a girl and a guy flirting as he comes into the shop to buy alcohol everyday to only have it taken from the police for a myriad of different excuses. Mostly the claim he’s just going to give it to his family and fuel the alcoholism in indigenous communities.

The film is just beautiful and you need to give it a watch, please do me that favour. It makes me, and I’m sure so many others, endlessly proud to be indigenous and reaffirms what we already know. We are still here.

Stan Walker All in (Platinum Edition)

Album so nice, gotta release it twice. Or you know, to make money

Album 8/10

Katchafire On the Road Again

Perfect album, thanks dad for buying the CD and changing the trajectory of my life.

Album 10/10

MOHI Kārearea

Only good vibes here e te iwi, plus MOHI is just continuosly putting out banger after banger. Love you my king.

Album 7/10

Jordyn with a Why Hey Love

Obsessed. No Notes. Amazine

Album 8/10

RIIKI REID Crash & Collide

Marry me

Album 8/10

Eli, 26

1. I've done a Haka before.

2. Kirikiriroa

3. Tana Umaga, Apirana Ngatai. That's all

4. I'm MEANT to be vegetarian but probably pork bones.

5. I don't think they'll mind if we don't.

Dayna, 24

1. I think I have in High School, like I know how to use poi. And a bit of Rakau.

2. Kirikiriroa

3. I can't think of any.

4. Chicken probably

5. No, I don't think so.

Helen, 21

1. I did do some Māori traditions. Some dances.

2. I don't, sorry.

3. Wanakore (shout out Orchard Park)

4. Definitely Chicken

5. Not for me, but Māori's would right?

Dassia

1. Yes I have. Food, Tangi and Pōwhiri

2. Kirikiriroa

3. My best friends

4. I don't eat meat. But I'll do puha and then I'm off to raw rish.

5. I think they need rights and protection.

Ethan

1. I think mostly karakia, even just a silent one. Starting my day off right.

2. Kirikiriroa

3. My nan, My Māmā

4. I'm not too hot on bacon bones but the right ones are a guilty pleasure. But those who know me would say brisket or pork bones.

5. Well, I don't think it's Māoricentric perspective. They're living, so yes right? That's the answer.

Pātai

1. Have you engaged in any Māori customs?

2. What's the Māori word for Hamilton?

3. Who are your top 3 Māori?

4. Go to meat in a Boil-Up

5. Should non-living entities be given personhood? Like a maunga.

Rāhina 11 Mahuru - Tangaroa A Mua

Today is a great day to cast your metaphorical fishing line out to the universe in order to catch the wishes and dreams you want to achieve.

Rātu 12 Mahuru - Tangaroa A Roto

It’s a great day to be in and around the water. Go for a walk along the Waikato awa. Take a trip out to Rags and go for a swim. Take a pen and paper with you to write down some future manifestations.

Rāapa 13 Mahuru - Tangaroa Kio Kio

Today you should plant some seeds for your future. Any action that your future self will thank you for, do it during this time period.

Rāpare 14 Mahuru - Otane

Try and do one good deed for the day, show love to your friends, family and work colleagues where you can.

Rāmere 15 Mahuru - Orongohui

Be surrounded by nature, take your shoes off and walk on some grass or hug a tree today.

Rāhoroi 16 Mahuru - Omaru

Today we are entering a short period of low energy. Use this time to take care of yourself and give yourself what you need.

Rātapu 17 Mahuru - Mutuwhenua

Have a self-care evening. Pop on your favorite TV show, have an ‘everything’ shower and give yourself some genuine rest and relaxation.

Rāhina 18 Mahuru - Whiro

Don’t be too hard on yourself if you’re not feeling on top of your game. Everyone has those days, have faith, you’ll bounce back soon.

Rātu 19 Mahuru - Tirea

Today is a great day to give back. Take a bag of old clothes you don't want anymore to your local opshop.

Rāapa 20 Mahuru - Ohoata

Any task that you’ve been procrastinating, tackle it head on today. It’s a great day to run it straight.

Rāpare 21 Mahuru - Ouenuku

Take advantage of the full moon’s brightness and go for a night time adventure. The moonlight can create a magical atmosphere for outdoor activities.

Rāmere 22 Mahuru - Okoro

If possible, go on a spontaneous road trip with your friends. Hop in the car, start driving, go on an adventure, explore somewhere you’ve never been before.

Rāhoroi 23 Mahuru - Tamatea A Ngana

Consider fishing! Whether you prefer the awa or the beach, use this as an opportunity to relax, reconnect with nature, and try to catch some fish.

Rātapu 24 Mahuru - Tamatea A Hotu

It’s a great time to put requests out into the universe. Clearly set your intentions and what you would like to manifest, and write them down as specific requests to the universe.

Rāhina 25 Mahuru - Tamatea A Io

Today is a day for reflection, try to observe yourself objectively. Pay close attention to your thoughts, behavior and emotions.

Rātu 26 Mahuru - Tamatea Kai Ariki

Perform random acts of kindness throughout the day, such as paying for someone's coffee, leaving uplifting notes in public spaces, or assisting strangers in need.

Rāapa 27 Mahuru - Huna

Limit your screen time and disconnect from emails and social media for a while to reduce mental clutter.

Rāpare 28 Mahuru - Ariroa

Practice gratitude today. Try not to focus on lack and spend some time reflecting on what you are grateful for in your life.

Rāmere 29 Mahuru - Hotu

Try out stream of consciousness journalling. Write down all your most inner thoughts, feelings, goals or whatever you want, in no particular structure, to just let it all out.

Rāhoroi 30 Mahuru - Mawharu

Create a physical representation of your goals today by creating a vision board that includes images, quotes and symbols that represent your future aspirations.

Rātapu 1 Whiri-ā-nuku - Atua

We are right in the middle of the best time to be manifesting your desires and sowing seeds for your future. Do what you want with this information.

Rāhina 2 Whiri-ā-nuku - Ohua

Plant a symbolic seed that holds personal significance, perhaps one representing a new beginning or a longterm goal.

Rātu 3 Whiri-ā-nuku - Oturu

Channel your energy into decluttering your closet and upgrading your personal style. Try something different, mix and match accessories, snap some photos, and document your favorite looks.

Rāapa 4 Whiri-ā-nuku - Rakaunui

Try to do a challenging physical activity that pushes your limits. Run a little longer, lift a little more, or just

move your body in general.

Rāpare 5 Whiri-ā-nuku - Rakanui Ma Tohi

Explore your artistic side by trying out a new hobby such as painting, crocheting, pottery or crafts. Channel your energy into making something beautiful.

Rāmere 6 Whiri-ā-nuku - Takirau

Listen to a mate going through a tough time and give them some thoughtful and considerate advice. Offer your ear and knowledge to someone who would benefit from your guidance and experience.

Rāhoroi 7 Whiri-ā-nuku - Okie

Don’t set your alarm and have a good sleep-in. Use this low energy day as an opportunity for deep relaxation, whatever that may look like for you.

Rātapu 8 Whiri-ā-nuku - Korekore Te Whiwhia

Pick up the book on your bed-side table you ‘never have time for’ and immerse yourself in the literature. Escape from reality for a bit, it will still be here when you decide to tune back in again.

Rāhina 9 Whiri-ā-nuku - Korekore Te Rawea

Do some stretches. Try to touch your toes or follow along with a yoga routine on Youtube. Your mind and body will definitely appreciate the care and relaxation.

Rātu 10 Whiri-ā-nuku - Korekore Piri Nga

Tangaroa

Use this day to connect with your inner self and contemplate your goals, dreams and intentions. Sit by a large body of water and meditate. You’ve got this. The universe is always in your corner. Go forth and prosper.

WORD SQUARE

SIMPLE PUZZLES FOR SIMPLE PEOPLE

RETURN THE LAND TO THE RIGHTFUL OWNER

RAPUKUPU

Wīare - Ouuush

Kei tua o tāwauwau - Away with the fairies

Ka mutu pea - Mean!

Hei aha māku - Doesn’t bother me

Waha papā - Big mouth

Ko tātou tērā - Is that us?

Wēhi naa - OMG

Ehāna - Upto?

Auahi ana - It’s lit

Kaitoa - Serves you right!

Mā te aha - Better than nothing

Mea rawa ake - Nek minute

Pai mutunga - All goods!

Mīharo ake nei - Amazing asf

Puzzles

Panga

Karawhiua - Give it your all

Ka ngangaro - Much better

He aha hoki - Whatever

Hangareka ana - Crack up

Aheiha - Yeah, hard/exactly!