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nā Kath Lousich (Ngāi Tahu – Ngati Waewae)
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Nā te Kaiwhakahaere
E rau tūruapō
E rau tohe
E rau toki ki te rika
Waitaki awa ki ruka, Waikato awa ki raro
E kūtere rā ki te tai e tere ai tō tātau wharauka ki te pae tawhiti rā anō.
He taoka o nehe, he taoka aweko, he taoka o ōku tīpuna e E kā tini rau o te iwi, tēnā tātau.
Last month, on 22 May, I had the privilege of attending an event hosted by Waikato-Tainui to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the historic signing of the Waikato Raupatu Claims Settlement. The 1995 Waikato Raupatu settlement marked a particularly significant moment in our nation’s history, as it was the first Treaty of Waitangi settlement reached between an iwi and the Crown. It set a precedent that materially influenced the Ngāi Tahu Deed of Settlement, which was signed two years later in 1997.
As with our own Settlement, a key component of the Waikato Raupatu settlement was the formal apology from the Crown acknowledging its wrongdoing. There was also the return of land, cash payments, rights of first refusal, and a relativity mechanism.
I mihi to Hana O’Regan for delivering a thoughtful and reflective address on behalf of Kāi Tahu at the event. And it was our honour to present a beautiful wahaika pounamu — courtesy of Des Heatherington and Waewae Pounamu — to Te Arikinui Kuini Nga Wai Hono i te Po and Waikato-Tainui, in honour of the significance of the occasion. The wahaika was given the name Te Rau o
Tūruapō, in recognition of those who paved the way, sacrificing their time, energy, and spirit to advance the claims of their people in pursuit of a vision for a better tomorrow.
It was a meaningful occasion that encouraged reflection on the historical significance and ongoing relevance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Treaty settlements in our nation. The honour, dignity, and reverence with which the subject was discussed struck me as standing in stark contrast to the way Treaty matters are being discussed and debated by this generation’s politicians and some commentators.
Don’t get me wrong – I know there was significant controversy and opposition in the lead up to the signing of Treaty settlements in the 1990s, when Waikato-Tainui and Kāi Tahu were concluding negotiations. However, I can’t help but feel that, by the time the ink was dry, we had started to achieve a greater recognition by New Zealanders and the political class that the honour and dignity contained in the efforts of our old people to champion our claims deserved acknowledgement. I worry that, as time passes, that recognition is fading.
The event was a good reminder that even – and perhaps especially – at a time when we are looking ahead to our next 25-year horizon with the launch of Mō Kā Uri –Kāi Tahu 2050, we must always be ready to tell the story of our past.
In the face of colonisation, broken promises, and the overwhelming institutional strength of the British Crown, our tīpuna fought back. They secured for us an enduring institutional foothold in this nation, known to them as Niu Tīreni. As a result, today our tribal identity impresses upon the constitutional, political, and social fabric of New Zealand. It embeds our tikaka within its normative framework and ensures that our rakatirataka within our takiwā cannot be ignored.
Our responsibility now is to build on what has been handed down to us and to assert our rakatirataka in our own generation. That is what Mō Kā Uri calls us to.
We have a busy and exciting time ahead as we work to bring the Mō Kā Uri vision to life across the Kāi Tahu ecosystem. I look forward to opportunities in the coming months to travel across the takiwā and connect with Papatipu Rūnaka and whānau to discuss this important tribal kaupapa.
Papaki tou te tai o mihi ki a koutou katoa.
Justin Tipa Kaiwhakahaere
“Until we have come to terms with the question of what we want to be as a people, there is no horizon of collective purpose.
Mō Kā Uri offers us an opportunity to move towards reimagining what we want to be and how we want to be!”
- TĀ TIPENE O’REGAN
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Kaikōura Rūnanga
Te Ora Haumanu
As the weather starts to change, and the days get cooler our Te Ora Haumanu kaimahi have been smashing out the mahi as we prepare for planting season! The tīma has been doing some spraying in new areas where our next lot of plants will be put, while also doing plant maintenance spraying at existing sites to ensure our natives thrive. It’s awesome to see how much these plants have grown and the positive footprint our kaimahi are leaving behind. We have also been working close to home, spending time at the Oaro River and Hapuku tackling weed control. The area of Hapuku we are working in is a wetland, making it a little more challenging for our tīma but nothing they can’t handle.
WHĀNAU SUBMISSION
Adoni Te Huikau Nicole Boyles
Adonai turned five on 1 of June! She was very thankful to receive these taonga from Ngāi Tahu. The pounamu was well received by her. Arohanui, the Boyles and Stirling families.
We are pleased to share the first lot of statistics for the year from our community trapping group. Our community trappers are doing a great job keeping those pests away and we are stoked to have such a variety of areas around Kaikōura targeting those pests! With a total of 132 catches, the top catch overall is rats. Ka pai āu mahi trappers, keep up all the hard work!
Left: Kaimahi doing weed control; below left: Community Trapping Data Summary.
Te Ara Pūkenga
This round we’ve seen some hard mahi going into studying and course progression from all of our tauira. We’ve had three tauira already complete their first online courses and most others are nearing the end of theirs too!
For the cultural development side of our kaupapa, everyone has done amazing with learning their mihimihi, now being able to memorise it and introduce themselves with confidence. In our te reo lessons, tauira have also been learning counting, telling time, lots of different kupu hou, with lots of fun games to help really lock in what they are learning.
On our weekly afternoon hīkoi we’ve visited all the significant areas and pā along the northern end of our takiwā, learning the stories of our tipuna and are looking forward to visiting the southern end to continue on pūrākau. The most common feedback from our tauira is how much more connected to their whakapapa and whenua they now feel, and that they have a deeper understanding of their culture.
Having the capability to provide this kaupapa and opportunity for our whanau and community is incredibly rewarding.
Above: Tauira visiting and taking in the breathtaking views from a pā site; left: Round 3 tauira at Mangamaunu Marae.
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Waewae
A big mihi to everyone celebrating their birthdays in the months below! If your birthday isn’t listed, please reach out to the office and we’ll make sure to add you to the list.
May
Shannon Robinson, Tahana Tauwhare, Moria Tainui, Emma Tainui, Papakura Tainui, Hector Tainui, Henare Mason, Eniitan Ewebiyi-Meihana, Tainui Coakley, Tahu Coulston, Te Rua Mason, Jayne Dottie Morrision, Adiriana Weepu, James Tuhuru Gibbs, Vicki Ratana, Donald Mason, Ari Royal-Tamainu, Kourtney Lang, Anika Ngaamo, Paige Hutana, Hector Tainui Jnr, Aaron Tainui, Hugo Davies, Liam Gutsell-Coakley, Harley Panapa, Ngahuia McLaughlin, William McLaughlin, Georgia Tainui.
June
Mowena Mason, Javana Watts, Ian Kearns, Zion Meihana-Whittle, Hemi Mason, Danielle Tainui, Selina Tainui, Lisa Tumahai, Jah-vana Lilley, Selina Tainui, Jack Delamare, Toby Tainui, Mahara Tainui, Sylvia Corcoran, Amanda Downs, Tonga Mason, Dwayne Mason, Ricky Popham, Tamati Mason, Martini Miller, Tania Wallace, Arahia Small.
Marlon Williams Wānanga and Concert
In March, we had the honour of hosting our kaihana Marlon Williams here at Arahura Marae for a special wānanga and evening concert.
During the day, Marlon spent time with a group of rangatahi Māori from across the Coast. Together, they learned one of the new waiata from his album Te Whare Tīwekaweka, “Kei Te Marama,” and got to know each other through waiata, kēmu, and kōrero.
That evening, our wider whānau gathered for an open concert where Marlon performed tracks from his new album, along with some classics, finishing with “Kei Te Marama” performed alongside the rangatahi.
Fusion Rangatahi Wānanga
In April, we had our Easter Fusion Holiday Wānanga. This year marks a full-circle moment as Fusion is now led and facilitated by our Ngāti Waewae rangatahi komiti.
What was once a space for them as tamariki has now become a platform they lead. Planning and delivering a jam-packed week full of games, fun, adventure and connection for the next generation for Arahura Pā boys and girls!
The tamariki had an awesome week with their cuzzies, playing games on the marae, kapa haka and checking out the Punakaiki Pancake rocks and exploring our new Punangairi Visitor Centre.
Celebrating Achievements
Tayla Nelson-Tūhuru
A huge congratulations to Tayla and the Empire Marching Team for their outstanding performance at the National Championships in Invercargill! Competing against top teams from across the country, they achieved: 1st Place – Display; 2nd Place – Technical; and 2nd Overall National Champions. Over two decades, Tayla has shown incredible commitment, skill, and leadership. Ngā mihi nui to the team, coaches, and whānau who continue to support this journey. Ka Rawe Tayla!
Ani Mason – West Coast U18 National Netball Championship
Congratulations to Ani Mason and the West Coast U18 netball team on qualifying for the National Championship! We’re incredibly proud of you and wish you all the best for the tournament!
Celebrating Achievements
Joe Mason
Congratulations to Joe Mason for successfully completing his Postgraduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching through Te Ako Mātātupu: Teach First NZ. Joe is pictured here at his graduation ceremony in Tāmaki Makaurau. We’re proud of his hard work and dedication and can’t wait to see the positive impact he’ll make on the taiohi of Te Tai o Poutini.
Kiwi Rugby Club – Supporting Wāhine Fundraiser Success
The Kiwi Rugby Club held a breast cancer fundraiser, turning the field into a platform for raising awareness for this important cause during their club day. In a show of support, the team played in specially designed jerseys which were then auctioned off, raising a whopping $11,000 for breast cancer awareness and support.
Many of the players are Ngāti Waewae whānau, standing in solidarity for a kaupapa that affects so many wāhine across Aotearoa, including our own whānau who have been touched by breast cancer, with some having passed away.
Thank you, Kiwi Rugby Club, your aroha is felt far beyond the try line.
Whānau Fun Day
Our Ngāti Waewae rangatahi komiti hosted a free Whānau Fun Day in support of Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention.
The activities on the day consisted of bouncy castles, pony rides, free haircuts, bubble soccer, mental health resource stalls, face painting, free treats, sports, an epic lineup of spot prizes and so much more.
It was truly rewarding to see our West Coast community come together to tautoko such an important kaupapa. A heartwarming moment was seeing local whānau (some who have never been to a marae before) feeling welcome and joining in on a day full of fun and connection.
On behalf of the rangatahi komiti, thank you for coming. We can’t wait to host another Whānau Fun Day.
Above, from left: Our rangatahi komiti (left to right: Amo Tamainu, Dani Tainui, Brooke Parker, Aleigha Ngaamo, Whakataerangi White, Ani Mason, Elly Mulholland, Anaru Tainui); Te Ahu Tama from Hokitika Barbershop giving George Simpson a haircut; West Coast Soft Serve keeping the kids happy (left to right: Finn Tauwhare, Ayaan Mason and Rihari Tuati); Whimsy Face and Body giving Casey Campbell a spiderman makeover.
Amaia enjoying the pony rides.
Māori Land Court Clinics at Arahura Marae
Arahura Marae hosted a successful Māori Land Court (MLC) Clinic, offering support to connect our whānau to their whenua.
Throughout the day, whānau received guidance on finding, managing and/or transferring land, succession, trusts, disputes and more.
We were pleased to welcome Olly from the Māori Land Court, along with representatives from IRD, Development West Coast, Te Puni Kōkiri and Ngāi Tahu Māori Law Centre who provided additional services and advice to support our whānau holistically.
It was a great opportunity to gain mātauranga about whānau whenua and to ensure its protection for future generations.
He Aituā
From the tamariki of Richard Barber
Richard Wayne Barber: 21.04.1957 – 27.04.2025
On Sunday 27 April, our dad Rick died at Palmerston North Hospital fighting cancer.
He was laid to rest by friends and whānau at Ōtaki Cemetery on Thursday 1 May.
Rick is survived by his five tamariki Sarah, Christopher, Frances, Haydn and Rowena, and two mokopuna Kōtare and Albert.
Rick is greatly missed by his beloved hoa rangatira Josta and many friends across the motu and overseas.
Dad lived passionately. He cared deeply and fought relentlessly for the taiao and gave so much to his Poutini Ngāi Tahu whānau.
Moe mai rā Dad – rere tōtika, rere pai, rere runga rawa rā e.
From Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Waewae
Rick was a very active member of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Waewae from March 2004 until August 2009. Around that time, he moved away from the coast but has stayed connected and visited often. Rick held many positions of office, appointed to the executive committee in January 2004, deputy chair and secretary 2006 and treasurer in 2007. He was appointed to the Pounamu Komiti in January 2006 and was an active member of the komiti participating in many hīkoi up the awa to map our pounamu repositories. Rick was a passionate climber and tramper and was very at home in the outdoors. He worked on health and safety with our Pounamu Komiti teaching the team how to cross rivers safely. From March 2006 to March 2009 Rick was the lead of the Land and Environment portfolio working on many of the environmental and conservation issues across our takiwā. He continued to support and remained very passionate about this mahi within Te Tai o Pountini. Rick represented the rūnanga on DOC for approximately two terms. He was the Fish and Game council representative for Poutini Ngāi Tahu and represented on the Paparoa Wildlife Trust in Kiwi and whio protection and preservation work in the Paparoa ranges. The Kororā – Blue penguin Trust and the Paroa – Taramakau guardians are groups he worked actively with to assist in the kaitiakitanga of our taonga manu. He was also a member of Kāti Waewae Charitable Trust and served on the board of trustees. Rick was passionate about Arahura and our people and worked extremely hard on all the kaupapa he was involved in. He got involved in everything he could help with and was a very generous giving person. It is fitting that we acknowledge Rick for his amazing contribution to our whānau.
LEARNZ
Kaupapa
Several of our whānau members supported a kaupapa alongside Tātai Aho Rau – CORE Education to create a virtual field trip about pounamu. Ngā mihi nui to Aaron Tauwhare, Katene Campbell, Ian Kearns and taua Horiana Tootell for sharing your time and mātauranga on this kaupapa. Once the online resources are ready, we will share the details with our whānau so you can access this field trip from wherever you are in the world!
Rūnanga business
If you have any rūnanga business queries including whakapapa registration forms, please contact our rūnanga administrator, Aleigha: Aleigha.Ngaamo@ngaitahu.iwi.nz or 027 755 6451.
If you have any marae bookings or queries, please contact our marae manager, Miriama –Events@ngatiwaewae.org.nz or 027 755 6451.
Keep in the loop
You can keep in the loop with our upcoming wānanga and events by:
• Joining the Poutini Ngāi Tahu and Arahura Rūnanga page on Facebook.
• Registering at: https://ngatiwaewae.org.nz/account/ register for access to our whānau portal with resources, updates and upcoming events.
• Providing your email address to Aleigha for rūnanga and community comms.
Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio
Theodore Whaiora Ihaka Condon –Birth Announcement
On 6 May, Nikki-Leigh Wilson-Beazley and Hayden Condon welcomed Theodore Whaiora Ihaka Condon to the world. Along with his parents and three older siblings Nixon, Beau and Violet, they are in love with him as are his taua Kara Edwards, poua Terry Beazley, tauanui Helen Rasmussen and koko whaiora kirikino (Pa Joe).
Taumaka Island
Taumaka is one of two islands just off Haast that make up the islands also known as ‘Open Bay Islands’, re-named by James Cook. Popotai is the smaller of the two islands which are whenua Māori and were returned to original owners in the 1980s when it was discovered they weren’t ever ceded or sold as part of the West Coast land sale.
Mana whenua have remained as active kaitiaki, and in recent years have become increasingly active in the management of the islands, working collaboratively with the Department of Conservation (DOC).
Rowi (Okārito Brown Kiwi) Return
Recently we had the opportunity to welcome five rowi home for release, three were chicks and the other two were mature adult birds. Rowi numbers have now reached 600 and we have a shared goal DOC to reach 900 by the year 2030. While ONE has its place, our priority is to have safe places on the mainland that are predator free where the birds can thrive naturally. Thanks to Maya Mahuika and Waikohatu Scott who were our representatives on the day and acknowledgements to the wonderful DOC staff.
Pounamu Hīkoi
Over the past month, three pounamu hīkoi have taken place in the southern part of our takiwā. Led by Kahurangi Mahuika, the hīkoi were aimed at getting our whānau back onto our whenua. Learning and expressing mātauranga on behalf of the collective hapū, the mahi forms part of a bigger strategy to become more active as kaitiaki pounamu. The participants were all Poutini Ngāi Tahu and had an incredible experience, exploring places most of our whānau will never get to experience. Thank you to the Office of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu for re-establishing a pounamu protection function and budget to support kaupapa such as this.
Marae Tikanga Wānanga
The lovely Puawai Wallace Swindells, supported by the Ngāi Tahu Fund, called and facilitated a marae-based tikanga wānanga last month. The wānanga was well attended by whānau from near and far provoking some excellent kōrero and learnings. Thanks to Puawai for taking the initiative and for creating the space for the wānanga to occur. Standby for our next onewānanga which will focus on pounamu and aotea customary and commercial use by whānau. Please keep an eye on your emails and our e-pānui Ka Tangi te Koko for further information.
Whakatipu Waitai –Hollyford Conservation Trust
See below the link to an article highlighting the fabulous mahi of the trust working closely with Ngāi Tahu Tourism featuring our fabulous ‘Hollyford Guided Walks’ management and staff. We acknowledge the work of the trust in their bid to support nature through the removal of invasive animals.
Kia Kūrapa ki Makaawhio will be a weekend long bilingual wānaka based at Te Tauraka Waka ā Māui marae. This wānaka is aimed at beginner and intermediate learners of te reo Māori and provides an opportunity to brush up on our reo Māori and delve deeper in to our stories and traditions from South Westland. There will be activities available for the tamariki at the Kia Kūrapa wānaka to help parents/ guardians while they are learning.
Please find the link to the enrolment form here: https://forms.office.com/r/gHG3DjmjLA
Members are again advised that our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is to be held on Saturday 1 November 2025 commencing at 9.45 am, at Te Tauraka Waka a Māui Marae, Mahitahi (Bruce Bay)
The business of the AGM will commence at 10.00am and will be in accordance with Section 7 of the Rules of Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio Society Inc 28/11/15. In line with our election process, membership registrations will be closed from 1 October to 1 November inclusive. Applications received during this period will be held for processing on 3 November. Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai! Kawe Mate – Sunday 2 November The morning after the AGM, we will be holding a kawe mate for those hapū members who have passed away. Please let us know prior and get in touch to ensure you have the right information regarding the photo specifications, the associated tikanga and if you have any queries. South Westland Whenua Māori Hui – Sunday 2 November – Te Tauraka Waka a Māui Marae
Following the kawe mate, we will be holding a series of hui for our Māori Reserve Lands for various blocks, but not all in South Westland. Further information will be provided in subsequent TPR editions as well as our email database and our e-pānui.
Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu Representative and Alternate Representatives and Election Panel Elections
Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio Incorporated wishes to inform current and potential members of the rūnanga of its intention to conduct a postal ballot for the purposes of electing the members of the Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio Incorporated Appointment Committee. Once elected, the Appointment Committee will be responsible for appointing the Representative and Alternate Representative of the rūnanga to represent its interests at meetings of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu (“Te Rūnanga”).
ANZAC Day
Another successful Anzac commemoration service was held at ‘Te Tauraka Waka A Maui’ this year with a great turn out from whānau and the local community. This years’ service was conducted by Ven Susan Wallace, Levi Robinson opened with mihi, and Helen Rasmussen shared a story and recited In Flanders Field. Father Peter Head from Catholic Parish of South Westland also supported the service with prayers and shared a reflection to the last surviving Maori Battalion member, Sir Robert Gillies who passed away on 7 November 2024, he was 99.
We were again grateful to have the two armed force soldiers who came all the way from Ōtautahi who took part in the service with readings and the flag ceremony. The kai was beautiful and plentiful as all responded to the ‘tono’ to bring a plate.
Please note only those people who have established their entitlement to be members of the rūnanga before 9.30am Saturday, 5 July 2025 will receive voting papers for this postal ballot, therefore all persons eligible to become a member of the rūnanga are encouraged to apply to be registered with Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio. Members of the rūnanga who have previously been registered are encouraged to ensure that their contact details as held by Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio are correct
Online and Paper Voting
Eligible members can vote by paper or electronic ballot. All current members aged 18 and over are encouraged to ensure their details are updated with Te Rūnanga by the deadline.
Online Voting
If we have your email address, your ballot will be sent electronically.
Paper Voting
If we do not have an email address for you, a paper ballot will be mailed to your physical address.
Requesting a Paper Ballot
If you prefer to receive a paper ballot instead of an electronic ballot, you must notify Te Rūnanga by the deadline.
Appointment Committee Nominations
Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio Incorporated will also be calling for nominations for the Appointment Committee at the Rūnanga General Meeting on Saturday, 5 July 2025. If you would like to be a member of the Appointment Committee, you will need to attend this meeting and submit your nomination by 9.30am Saturday, 5 July 2025. You can contact the rūnanga office – Telephone: 03 755 7885.
Sergent Nathan Kawana, Ven Susan Wallace, Father Peter Head and Major Nick Wellwood.
Kura Pounamu Closing
A moving Poutini Ngāi Tahu ceremony was held at the Hokitika museum to mark the closing of the exhibition. During the installation over 17,000 manuhiri had been through indicating its popularity for whānau, the community and manuhiri. Whānau spoke about the meaning and symbolism of having these toanga here and for some of them, it would be the first time they had returned to the Tai Poutini since they were manufactured here.
Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke
Rāpaki School Re-Opening
On May 10, whānau and friends attended the reopening of Rāpaki School. Originally built in 1876, closed as a school in 1946 and then used for many purposes since then, the school building was moved and restored in a year-long project that saw the retention of the heritage aspects of the building and the addition of new facilities to ensure this whare will serve us as a wānaka space for many decades ahead. At the opening itself we were fortunate to hear the stories shared by our kaumātua including two former pupils Robert Tikao and Gertrude Warnes.
Left: Taua Horiana and Maria Russell.
444 Governors Bay Road Purchase
In May our Rūnaka purchased a piece of whenua (29.82Ha) that was originally part of MR875 but was sold off in the early 20th century. This whenua is of immense value in terms of whakapapa and historical connection. Following a whānau hīkoi to the site in June, we will be looking at various options to utilise the whenua for the benefit of the hapū and the taiao.
Our huge thanks go to all hapū members and staff involved for getting this purchase over the line as well as Ngāi Tahu property staff, in particular Simon Tucker, for their assistance with due diligence.
Papakāika
We continue to work on plans to provide papakāinga opportunities for our whānau to come back to live in our takiwā. As part of this we recently created a masterplan with the help of CA Architecture for the old Lyttelton West School site.
We will be engaging with whānau in the coming months regarding papakāinga. Keep an eye out for more comms.
Office Conference Centre Build Update
The build of the new Office and Conference Centre continues to remain on track for completion by January 2026.
Recent and Upcoming Wānaka
The last few months has seen a wide range of wānaka being undertaken at the marae on kaupapa including: tangihanga, tikanga and kawa, te reo, the whakapapa and development of our whare whakairo, the development of a new strategic plan.
With funding from the Ngāi Tahu Fund we will be holding regular series of paepae wānaka for all interested whānau.
Whānau Commns
Whānau members if you don’t already receive our email pānui please join our mailing list by sending your email to: rapaki@ngaitahu.iwi.nz
Follow our public page on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NgatiWheke) and ask to join our private Facebook hapū rōpū.
Architect render of possible Lyttelton West Papakāinga site layout.
Tuna Wānanga
Te Taumutu Rūnanga
He mihi tēnei ki te mana o te whānau Perenara-O’Connell, e hautū nei i tēnei kaupapa whakahirahira mō te heke tuna. Recently they brought whānau together to learn, share, and reconnect with the knowledge passed down by our tūpuna.
During the wānanga, tamariki and adults worked alongside each other in the water and on the land. They learnt how our people once caught, prepared, and preserved tuna, not just as a food source, but as part of a way of life.
One of the traditional methods we learned about was rapu tuna, meaning to seek. Uncle Malcolm used to teach us how our tūpuna would use their hands or feet to search under riverbanks, around stones, or through the mud to find where the tuna were hiding. It was a practical way of reading the water and understanding the habits of the tuna.
For our part, we stood on both sides of the creek and called out “lights off” — giving the tuna time to move out from their hiding spots. Then came the call of “lights on” and everyone had to be quick with their gaffes, grabbing what tuna they could (being careful not to touch our special taua tuna). The real fun kicked in when the rest of the crew had to scoop them up and drop them into the black drums. It was a full whānau effort, loud, muddy, and full of laughs.
After the tuna were caught, they were prepared and preserved using the methods of pāwhara or maroke. The heads, tails, and backbones were removed, and the tuna were then hung to dry, sometimes in sheds, sometimes in woven baskets, this time on the washing line.
Curing could take months, but it meant whānau had food long after the season ended.
Ko ngā hau ki ētahi wāhi, ko ngā kai ki Orariki.
Tuna
Right, top:
hanging to dry.
Right: Whānau checking out the newly dug koumu.
Whānau searching for tuna. Below: Tuna.
Toro Atua presentation to Taumutu
Toro Atua, by Dr Areta Wilkinson, Ngāi Tahu was officially opened on 6 July 2024. It is intended as a legacy for future generations. Liz Brown, Taumutu Chair was gifted a prototype and framed photos of the artwork.
Made up of 20. shimmering, stainless-steel figures on golden poles up to four metres tall, the artwork is a distinctive landmark in Rolleston Town Centre. They are permanently located in the reserve next to Te Ara Ātea, Rolleston’s cultural and community hub.
Dr Wilkinson was commissioned to create Toro Atua by a panel from the Rolleston Residents’ Association, Selwyn District Council, SCAPE Public Art and Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki ki Taumutu, following a competitive selection process. SCAPE Public Art fundraised over 50 percent of the project budget to supplement historical council funds that had been set aside for public artwork.
Ruahikihikitanga portfolio leader, Puamiria ParataGoodall welcomed the artist’s sensitive response to mana whenua stories. “Toro Atua reflects many strands of the narrative, where we speak to the whakapapa, kōrero and mahinga kai traditional food and resource practices. Another key aspect is the importance of the site as a pouwhenua or marker in the network of traditional and contemporary trails across the landscape of Tauwharekākaho Rolleston.”
Areta says creating Toro Atua is an immense privilege and a career highlight. “Objects become taonga through the community of care around them. Already many people have contributed their energy and skill to this project. We hope that Toro Atua will become integral to the sense of identity and landscape of generations of local people.”
We also send out a bi-monthly e-pānui and other important communications to our whānau via our whānau email list. If you would like to be added to the list, please email us at: Taumutu@ngaitahu.iwi.nz
Liz Brown, Taumutu Chair with Ronelle Bianchet from Scape Public Art.
Te Rūnanga o Koukourarata
Aroma New Zealand is one of our Horomaka Ltd investment partnerships.
Horomaka Ltd holds licenses permitting it to grow mussels and Aroma purchases the mussels from site.
On Monday our Horomaka board members went out to see how they harvest mussels, and we hosted the Aroma team (Ben G. Winters, Managing Director, Ben S. Winters, Company Director and staff) to engage in kōrero.
Ben G Winters (Ben Senior) started Aroma with his late father in 1961 where they made essences and flavourings for the soft drink and malt extract industry. That’s where the name Aroma came from. Years later, they looked into the mussel industry and have been producing ever since.
Our mussels are predominantly used in their GlycOmega oils and powders. Utilising the meat and shells to create nutritional supplements that are sold worldwide for people and animal vitality.
Left to right: Kira Mortimer (KDC & Horomaka Administrator), Gina-Lee Duncan (Kahautū –Te Rūnanga o Koukourarata), Nicole ManawatuBrennan (KDC Director), Ben Winters Jr (Aroma Company Director), Ben Winters Sr (Managing Director), Wayne Hollis (General Manager), Makarini Rupene (Horomaka Director) and Mike Moy (Farming Operations Manager).
Above: Blue mussels in Menzies Bay; Squally Bay.
Rāpaki, Taumutu and Koukourarata Kaumātua
Little River Cafe was blessed with the best on 1 April when our kaumātua met up with Taumutu and Rāpaki kaumātua for a kai and kōrero. Big mihi to Taumutu for inviting us!
Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa.
The photos say it all.
Upcoming Hui
Constitution Hui
Sunday 13 July, 10am-3pm Tūtehuarewa Marae
General Rūnanga Hui
Sunday 27 July, 10am Tūtehuarewa Marae
Constitution Hui
Saturday 2 August, 10am-3pm Tūtehuarewa Marae
September General Rūnanga Hui followed by Companies and Rūnanga Annual General Meetings
(Koukourarata Development Company Limited, Horomaka Limited, Te Rūnanga o Koukourarata Society Incorporated)
Sunday 28 September first hui begins at 10am.
Wairewa Rūnanga
Reconnection Wānanga
Ko te kawakawa e iri ana i te pare o Makō
Ko te weruweru taratara kei te tua o Karaweko
Ko Irakehu e hae kino nei i te mamae, i te tiwhatiwha
Ko te pā whakawairua o Wairewa kua riro
Ko te ruri whenua o te Pātaka o Rākaihautū kua kapo
Ko te mātaratara o Hine Takurua e oka kino nei i te kiri
Ko Tahumatā ka tawharau i mano o Irakehu
Ka mākūkū tou i te roi o te tangata, kei te pāpā.
Kei te manawa whenua
Kei te taniwha hikuroa
E Trevor
Ko koe tērā hei kimonga whetū mō tō rahi
Ā haere ake nei.
Kei te poua
Haere, haere, e oki atu rā
We are deeply saddened at the passing of our pōua Trevor (Paku) Carroll
Over the weekend of 21-23 March, we welcomed whānau from across the motu for our reconnection wānanga –a kaupapa created for whānau who haven’t been connected, offering a space to reconnect with each other and our whenua. It was a weekend filled with kōrero, exploring our takiwā, and strengthening our understanding of who we are and where we come from. A time of beautiful whanaungatanga, learning, and sharing stories.
Ngā mihi to Kenny for another successful wānanga, and to all who joined us.
Keep an eye out for future dates in our e-pānui or on our facebook!
Whānau & Te Upoko o Tahumatā.
Kenny sharing kōrero at the canal at Birdlings Flat.
Wairewa Games Day
Our Wairewa Games Day held at Awa-iti Domain was a fantastic day full of laughter, competition, and whakawhanaungatanga.
Kicking off with karakia, whānau arrived in full team colours, ready to give it their all across a range of fun games – egg and spoon races, balloon relays, gumboot throwing, trivia, and of course, a fierce tug-o-war finale! With teams stacked with tamariki through to kaumātua, the energy was high and the encouragement from the sidelines even higher.
Highlights included standout costumes, impressive efforts (and a few hilarious wipeouts), and a whole lot of team spirit. After games and kai, we wrapped up with prizegiving, acknowledging those who showed exceptional enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and effort.
It was a great reminder of the strength and joy that comes from simply showing up and connecting as whānau. Ngā mihi to everyone who made the day one to remember – we’re already looking forward to the next one!
See more photos on our website: wairewamarae.co.nz
Bird and Plant Monitoring at Te Kaiō
On Wednesday 16 April we joined University of Canterbury (UC) students out at Te Kaiō for a day of biodiversity monitoring, observing and recording birdlife and plant species as part of the Tautoru Mautai project. This kaupapa, now in its third year, is led by UC and provides valuable data that supports our shared efforts to heal the whenua and protect our taonga species. It’s always awesome to be part of this mahi and to see science, mātauranga, and community working together for the future of our taiao!
Team kōkako – the 2025 Wairewa Games winners! Below: Team kōwhai doing the hulahoop challenge.
The future of Wairewa; above right: Wairewa whānau at Awa-iti Domain Clubrooms.
UC Students and Wairewa whānau at Te Kaiō; above right: Hana McIntosh and Jakoda Panirau searching for mokomoko.
Manawhenua Manamoana Haerenga to Japan
On Thursday 17 April, Eden Skipper, Matiu Prebble, Iaean Cranwell, Irai Weepu, Erana Riddell, Aaria Rolleston, Tia Barrett and Robin Wybrow travelled to Japan as part of a special kaupapa to support the future of our tuna. Over six weeks, they’ll be learning about how Japan manages and protects their tuna and gathering new knowledge and insights to strengthen the mahi we are doing here.
They’ll be exploring a range of practices, from fish passes and conservation efforts to fishing techniques, processing methods, and the cultural significance of tuna. Building strong connections and learning from others will help guide our efforts to safeguard our taonga species for generations to come.
You can watch the video updates from them on our Facebook page: facebook.com/wairewa
Nau mai e te taonga hou
Hauora Series
Jorgia Panirau (mokopuna of John and Pollyann Panirau) and partner Kain Russell welcomed their pēpi, Isla Simone Russell-Panirau, on Sunday 20 April.
We have a range of hauora sessions coming up for our whānau in late July-August! Once confirmed, the dates and times will be shared on our Facebook page and in our e-pānui for the following kaupapa:
• Tamaiti healthy homes
• Tāne health
• Wāhine health
• Rangatahi sexual health
These kaupapa are all about supporting the wellbeing of our whānau in ways that are safe, open, and tailored to our people. More information to come soon – watch this space.
Whakapā mai
0800 WAIREWA (924 7392) PO Box 15011, Christchurch, 8643 wairewa@ngaitahu.iwi.nz Email Wairewa.comms@ngaitahu.iwi.nz to sign up to our monthly newsletter. Like and follow us on Facebook to keep up-to-date with Wairewa! Facebook.com/Wairewa
Scan the QR code to take you to the Wairewa Facebook page.
Erana Riddell, Eden Skipper, Iaean Cranwell, Yamada-san, Aaria Rolleston, Tia Barrett, Irai Weepu and Matiu Prebble.
Big cousin Parekura Wikaira with baby Isla.
WHĀNAU SUBMISSION
Kia ora my Ngāi Tahu whānau,
Ko Rebecca Rissetto (Nee Wanoa) taku ingoa, daughter of Te Orewa Hine Wanoa (Nee Robinson) granddaughter of Tom and Molly Robinson from Wairewa Rūnanga.
On the 12 April 2025 at Rutherford Primary School in Tamaki Makaurau, I received my Moko Kauae from my dear friend Ronn Kupa. He is an extraordinary artistic talent. For years, I had been thinking of getting my moko kauae but either work or whānau commitments got in the way.
I was also at times unsure how to go about getting a moko kauae, or worried if it would affect my mahi as an extra/actress. I wondered “do I deserve to have a moko kauae?”
I spoke with the love of my life, my husband Ringo our daughter Erana and my mokopuna Virginia, Rainbow and Ruby they said they are with me 100%. Our daughter, Erana Foster said: “Mum, we are having a mokopapa at the lura I teach at, Rutherford Primary. Our Bilingual Māori kaiako Jeff Ruha and Tumuaki Amanda Bennett are organising a huge event, would you like to attend?”
I was hesitant, but my moko said: “Do it Taua! You are the best taua in the world and we love you.”
I spoke with Jeff. He is a lovely young kaiako and very polite and well-mannered. I put my name down. I was excited to say the least! I had finally decided to get my moko kauae. As the days grew closer, I was more and more nervous.
Over three days, we had Friday moko wānanga with the tōhunga. I was so glad I came, to better understand taking moko kauae.
Saturday I was wearing my mother’s korowai and dress and having my moko kauae done. It was a blessing to have my whānau and friends supporting me.
My moko kauae is a symbol of my whakapapa, cultural identity. It is who I am and where I come from. It is important to wear it with mana and to always be humble and kind. To uphold our tikanga and be Māori Proud.
On the Sunday we had karakia, photos and closing of the event.
I am so happy, proud that I now have my moko kauae, but I am sad that my mum Te Orewa Hine
was not here to see it.
Big a thank you to kaiako Jeff Ruha, Tumuaki Amanda Bennett. Also to Uncle Jack Brooking and Joni Brooking. To my moko artist Ronn Kupa for organising the mokopapa event.
I would also like to thank my rūnanga, Wairewa for supporting me by helping with my grant for my Māori Fluency Diploma at Te Wananga O Takiura. This has helped me with my studies because I cannot have course-related costs from studylink as I am too old, so thank you once again.
Nga Mihi Nui, Rebecca Rissetto
(Aunty Olly)
Ōnuku Rūnanga
WHĀNAU SUBMISSION
Bonnie Garner (nee. Robinson)
Kathrine Wiki-Arapeta, daughter of Justin and Natalie Wiki-Arapeta, mokopuna of Jock and Ngaio Tuari (Morgan) and Tom Wiki-Arapeta and Mary Parata graduated in April from the University of Canterbury with an Engineering Degree, majoring in Mechatronics with Honours. Kathrine is currently tutoring and working in hospitality before heading off to the UK for her next adventure.
E poho kereru ana matou te whānau i a koe Kathrine.
Ko te manu e kai ana i te miro, nōnā te ngahere.
Ko te manu e kai ana i te mātauranga, nōnā te ao.
5 mauka in 5 weeks challenge. Jymal Morgan, Kelly Tikao and Kaycee Soutar: We climbed Maukatere, Tuahiwi. It was muddy but such a good hike up the top and an even better one coming down.
Kelly Tikao
Graduation – Level 4 certificate in Manaakitanga Tangata –Bi-cultural Social Services.
Jymal, Kaycee and Kelly.
WHĀNAU SUBMISSION
Antonia de Lautour
Antonia de Lautour recently graduated with a Bachelor of Design in Applied Visual Arts. She is the daughter of Nicky de Lautour (Waghorn) and connects to Ōnuku Marae through Te Marino Gilbert. Antonia creates immersive, intuitive works that explore human emotion and subconscious expression through colour, movement, and sound. She is pictured here with one of her recent paintings. Antonia is currently a postgraduate student, working towards becoming a Creative Arts Therapist, blending her passion for art, healing, and psychology.
She is also the founder and facilitator of koha-based life drawing (clothed) classes held at Christchurch’s Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora. You can find these classes on the Facebook page Life draw chch or on Instagram @lifedrawing_chch
Wairaamia
Tikao TaratoaBannister
Wairaamia
Tikao TaratoaBannister is one of the students promoting UC Future Choice Campaign for 2025. She did the Believe U Can Campaign in 2021 also.
Wairaamia is now studying Psychology and Māori and is the Co-Chair for Te Akatoki, which is the UC Māori Student Association.
Jaya Bishop (Morgan)
Jaya Bishop (Morgan) was selected to take part in the 2024 Tuia Leadership Program. The Tuia Program selects one or two rangatahi from each district council nationally to be mentored by elected members. They also attend leadership development wānanga over the course of the year and commit to a 100-hour community project.
Jaya is a youth worker who completed the Tuia Programme in 2024 and says it has been hugely positive, enabling her to build life-long connections with other like-minded rangatahi Māori and strengthen her Mātauranga Māori.
“I learned not to be whakamā, to be Māori in Pakeha/ mainstream spaces. The Tuia Programme teaches you to be unapologetically Māori.”
Jaya was mentored by Mayor Phil Mauger and Simon Britten, Deputy Chair of the Waipapa Papanui-Innes-Central Community Board, who has been a mentor for a number of years. Jaya who is 19-year-old, is currently studying for a diploma of youth work and hopes to attend some of this year’s wānanga as a tuakana (buddy/mentor).
Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua
BI-LINGUAL SUBMISSION
He Karanga ki te Ao: Ko taku haerenga ki Karipori I tēnei tau, i riro i a au te hōnore nui kia tū hei kaikaranga i Karipori mō te Rā ANZAC. He wheako hōhonu – e kore au e i wareware ite kaha o te wairua o taua wāhi. I te tākiritanga o te ata, i karanga au ki te hunga i tae atu, ki te maumahara ki ō tātou hōia, ki ō tātou tīpuna i hinga i reira.
Ahakoa te tawhiti atu i tōku kāinga, i rongo au i te rere o te reo Māori –he tohu pai tēnā, e kore e ngaro ā tātou tikanga, ahakoa i whenua kē.
I kōwhiria au hei wāhanga o tētahi ope nō Te Ope Kātua o Aotearoa, toru tekau mā rua ngā kaimahi, tokowaru o mātou i noho hei Māori Cultural Element (MCE). I tīmata mātou i Whenuapai Air Force
Base i Tāmaki Makaurau mō ngā rā e toru ki te whakangungu. He haerenga roa, neke atu i te toru tekau mā rima hāora, i tae mātou ki Çanakkale (Tākia) – he haurua hāora te tawhiti mā te waka whakawhiti i te moana ki Karipori.
Ka mahara tonu au ki te wā i tū ai au i te whenua mō te wā tuatahi – hīnawanawa te kiri, ka rere te ihi. Nāku tō mātou ope ki te kaupapa tuatahi, i karanga au ki ō tātou tīpuna: kua hoki mātou ki te whakanui i a rātou, ki te whakatika i te ara, kia tau tō rātou wairua. Whai muri i tōku karanga i waiatatia ‘Takahia Atu Rā – he momo mōteatea hei whakamahara i ō tātou tīpuna
My Journey to Gallipoli
This year, I had the honour of standing as a kaikāranga in Gallipoli for ANZAC Day. It was a profound experience — and an honour I will never forget. In the quiet of dawn, in front of the thousands gathered, I called to our fallen soldiers and ancestors.
I a mātou e noho ana i Karipori, i tae mātou ki ngā huihuinga whakamaharatanga o ētahi atu iwi, i hīkoi i ngā ara o te pakanga o ō tātou tīpuna (nā tētahi kaituhi hītori i ārahi), ā, i toro hoki ki ngā urupā maha. Ko te wā tino whakahirahira ki ahau, ko te toronga ki te Pā Māori. Kāore e taea te whakamārama te mauri o taua wāhi – i rongo rawa mātou katoa, Ngāi Māori, Ngāi Pākehā hoki.
Although so far from home, I felt the wairua and mana of our reo flowing – a powerful reminder that our tikanga is enduring, even on foreign soil.
I was selected as part of a 32-strong contingent from the New Zealand Defence Force, of which eight of us formed the Māori Cultural Element (MCE). We first gathered at Whenuapai Air Force Base in Auckland for three days of training. After more than 35 hours of travel, we arrived at our home base, Çanakkale – a 30-minute ferry ride from the Gallipoli Peninsula.
I will never forget the moment I first stepped onto that whenua — chills instantly ran through my entire body. I led our contingent into our first ceremony, calling through karanga to our fallen men; that we had returned to honour them, to clear the path, and help settle them in peace. This was closely followed by Takahia Atu Rā — a chant, to help guide their spirits home.
During our time on the peninsula, we attended several commemorative ceremonies hosted by other nations, spent many days walking the battle routes of our ancestors (accompanied by a historian who brought those stories to life), and paid tribute at many urupā. Of all these moments, the most meaningful for me was visiting the Māori Pā site. The mauri of that whenua was unlike anything I’ve ever felt –
Keri Tamati, the youngest daughter of Diana (née Manning) and Reg Hayden. Mokopuna of the late Stewart and Joan Manning. Below: Keri Tamati and Ngahuia Harrison both Kaikaranga.
He rau mahara ka pupuri au mō ake tonu atu.
Ka taka mai te Rā ANZAC. Ahakoa e tino rongonui ana te kaupapa ‘Dawn Service’ me ngā tāngata o Ahitereiria, ko te huihuinga whakamaharatanga i muri mai i ‘Chunuk Bair’ he tino whakahirahira ki a mātou, nā te mea e whakamaharatia ana i reira ngā hōia o Aotearoa anake.
Whai muri i te tekau rā, ka tīmata te hokinga roa ki te kāinga.
He mihi nui ki taku wāhi mahi (Te Tauaarangi marae), me te hunga katoa kua tautoko, kua ārahi i a au i tēnei haerenga . He hōnore nui ki ahau te kawe i te reo me te mana o ō tātou tīpuna ki tēnei whenua tapu. Ka maumahara tonu tātou ki a rātou.
Below: Some of the NZDF Contingent, Anzac Day, Gallipoli.
for both Māori and non-Māori! It’s something that is hard to articulate, and it will remain a memory I’ll forever hold close.
Then came ANZAC Day. While the Dawn Service with the Australians is the most well-known, for us New Zealanders, the late-morning ceremony at Chunuk Bair (a commemoration dedicated to our own ancestors) was another unforgettable highlight.
After 10 days, it was time to begin the long journey home.
A heartfelt thank you to my workplace (the Air Force marae), and to everyone who has supported and guided me throughout my karanga journey. It was a privilege to carry the voice and mana of our people to such sacred ground.
We will remember them.
Te Rūnanga o Waihao
Whānau Events and Wānaka
Our marae komiti has planned a number of events for us over the next couple of months. Please take time to read through the event information and register your attendance using the QR code link or check out our website for more information.
Register with us
Did you know that there are over 25,000 Ngāi Tahu members who whakapapa to Waihao? We want to grow our membership and engage with you! You can register easily online on our website. All you need is your Ngāi Tahu whakapapa number or some knowledge of your 1848 kaumātua, fill in the registration form and we will handle the rest!
Scan the QR code to go directly to the registration page or head to our website: www. waihaorunanga. co.nz
Kaitiaki Taiao o Waihao
Our kaitiaki taiao rangers have been busy setting DOC traps for pest control for a nohoanga site –Te Puna o Tarakao.They will be clearing the site, then commencing the trapping and restoration planting.
Wainono Box Opening
Hui-ā-Tau 2025
We are hosting Hui-ā-Tau in November, and we are on the lookout for whānau to support hosting our iwi for the Annual General Meeting and report back. If you are interested in supporting the kaupapa please register using the QR code at right.
For whānau who want to keep up to date with all Hui-ā-Tau preparations, the central location for all information is our website – in the whānau login section. Please contact the office for the login information on waihao@ngaitahu.iwi.nz
Hui Schedule 2025
Date
Sunday 31 August
Sunday 19 October
Friday 21 November –Saturday 22 November
Sunday 7 November
Who
Whānau Hui
Annual General Meeting
Hui-ā-Tau
Whānau Hui
Life Cycle of the Longfin Eel
As Aotearoa eels have never been seen spawning, this part of their life cycle is based on what scientists think happens.
In autumn, adult eels leave fresh water and swim from Aotearoa to tropical seas somewhere in the South Pacific. Females lay millions of eggs that are fertilised by males. Eels die after spawning and do not return to Aotearoa. The eggs hatch into larvae that float to the surface and drift back towards Aotearoa. They may take about 17 months to arrive.
Larvae then change into glass eels – transparent juveniles. These enter estuaries and turn darker, from which point they are known as elvers. Elvers move upstream and find a suitable place to live, where they grow into adults.
The average lifespan for longfin eels is 35–52 years, but they can live for up to 100 years and sometimes longer. Shortfin eels have an average lifespan of 18–23 years but can live for up to 60 years.
Te Mana o Te Wai Wānaka
Over the weekend of 14 – 16 February, we had whānau stay at Te Whare Mahana in Twizel to participate in our final Te Mana o Te Wai wānaka, facilitated by Mananui Ramsden along with guest speaker Tā Mark Solomon.
Whānau visited Te Motu Ariki, Te Ao Marama, Te Manahuna and Kenmore Reservoir to get a better understanding of the importance of these areas. The weather played its part meaning whānau were able to take a dip in the awa after lunch. A full round-up will be provided to whānau over the next few months to conclude this kaupapa.
Notice 1
Following the success of our first tipi haere last year in October, Te Rūnanga o Waihao is excited to confirm that our next one to Tūhura Otago Museum to reconnect with our taonga has been booked with Gerard O’Regan for Saturday 6 December 2025.
Please keep an eye out on both our Facebook page and weekly pānui for further information and registration information.
Notice 2
SAVE THE DATE!
Held onsite at Waihao Marae, this year’s whanau Christmas party will be on Sunday 7 December, following the conclusion of our last whānau hui for the year.
Join us for some great kai, entertainment and kōrero with other whānau in attendance. Registrations will be open from mid-September.
Te Rūnanga o Moeraki
Te Rūnanga o Moeraki – Revised Website
Appointment of a CEO
Te Rūnanga o Moeraki and our whānau are happy to announce the appointment of Trevor McGlinchey as CEO. Trevor is an experienced executive leader who is grounded in tikanga and well known for his values-based leadership.
Trevor and his whānau, wife Rangi and their children Mauriri, Āwhina and Huia, reactivated their whakapapa connections with Moeraki in the early 1980s and have been actively involved with the marae and rūnanga since then. During this period, Trevor has fulfilled numerous positions including rūnanga chair in 80s and 90s and the founding chair of our holding company Moeraki Limited and our health and social services company Te Hā o Maru.
His employment history includes the development of a kaupapa Māori community trust and Private Training Establishment, managing the Southern Area Office of the Tertiary Education Commission, Executive Officer for the advocacy organisation the NZ Council of Christian Social Services and General Manager, Oranga, at Te Rūnanga o Ngai Tahu.
As CEO of Te Rūnanga o Moeraki Trevor will work across the rūnanga and Moeraki owned companies Moeraki Ltd, Te Hā o Maru and Whiria te Waitaki to support these organisations to work together to produce the best results for Moeraki whānau.
Over the last few months, we have had our whanaunga Kera O’Regan updating our rūnanga website with the aim of having a stronger platform that is more relevant and up to date for our whānau looking at ways to learn and engage more with Moeraki. The website also includes an education hub that will be shared with schools and early childhood, and a member only section where registered whānau members will be able to access rūnanga documents, minutes and kaupapa pertaining to Moeraki whānau. You can find the updated website link here: Te Rūnanga o Moeraki
Get Connected Stay Connected
E te whānau, just a reminder that it is never too late to get connected. We remain committed to enrolling whānau, and keeping our current whānau contact list updated, so if you have moved and need to update your details or wish to enrol please find our contact details below.
Te Rūnanga o Moeraki
43 Tenby street Moeraki 9482
Phone: (03) 4394816
Email: Moeraki.runanga@ngaitahu.iwi.nz
Website: www.terunangaomoeraki.org
Facebook: Te Rūnanga o Moeraki | Facebook (You must be registered and answer the membership questions to access the FB page)
Hono ki Tua – Education Hub
Otago’s three Papatipu Rūnaka have joined forces to establish an innovative education hub aimed at transforming cultural capability across the region’s education sector. The initiative, named Hono ki Tua, represents a collaborative effort between Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki, Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou, and Te Rūnaka o Moeraki, with Otago Community Trust announcing that it will provide funding of $1.804 million over three years for the ambitious project.
The goal of Hono ki Tua is to develop a sustainable education hub focused on working with education
WHĀNAU SUBMISSION
Kia ora,
My son Ryan graduated in May from Otago University with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Criminology. He is now continuing with his studies completing an Honours Degree in Psychology.
providers throughout the Otago region to enhance knowledge and understanding of Kāi Tahu mātauraka. This initiative builds on and extends well-established services and longstanding sector relationships.
Taking a phased approach, the hub will initially employ dedicated kaitoko mātauraka and a kaikōkiri mātauraka to work with education providers across Otago –spanning early childhood, primary, and secondary education sectors – to deliver a wide number of education initiatives.
I thought it would be nice to put a photo in Te Panui Runaka (Moeraki).
Ngā Mihi, Kim Hiko
Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki
Tamatea Richard Wiremu Smith
Kia hiwa rā, Kia hiwa rā
Ka tangi te tītī
Ka tangi te kākā
Ka tangi hoki te pere kura.
He whakaaro ki ngā maunga i ara ai tāku tangi, tāku auē, he whakaaro ki ngā puninga o te koraha tāku uhunga; ko Hikaroroa te mauka e tū mai rā i te tonga, ā, ko Rangitūmau maunga e tū mai rā i te raki, tērā anō te pūruatanga o ngā awa ko Waikouaiti rāua ko Ruamāhanga, ā, ka heke noa ngā awa wai o ōku kanohi i tō wehenga e Tamatea e.
Huriawa Karamea
Tamatea Richard Wiremu Smith, son of the late Percy and Mahana (née Te Tau) passed away on 22 March in Dunedin. He was a loved brother to Dawn, Huia, Ngaire, the late Aroha and the Walsh whānau, Karen, Robyn, the late Nicky and Richard, Jennifer, Pania and Kiri and a loved cousin and uncle to the wider Te Tau whānau.
Tama was born in Palmerston (Otago) in 1946 and spent his early childhood in Waikouaiti before the family moved to Campbell Park up the Waitaki Valley where his father got a carpentry role. After completing high school at Waitaki Boys and gaining a teaching qualification, Tama spent 30 years teaching in the North Island before returning south in 1998 to take up a teaching role at Waikouaiti School. The return south allowed Tama to get involved in rūnaka affairs, move to Puketeraki and marry his second wife, Joy. Tama was a member of the rūnaka executive committee for some years and kept a keen interest in rūnaka affairs until ill health meant he was no longer able to do this.
Two reo wānaka were held over the last eight months at Puketeraki Marae (11 - 13 Oketopa 2024, 14 - 16 Māehe 2025). These wānaka reo were supported by Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki and Te Mātāwai. This kaupapa has been running for roughly four years now and is a wānaka for absolute beginners to intermediate speakers, to not only start their language journey, but learn more about our marae, our whenua and our whakapapa as Kāi Te Ruahikihiki and Kāti Huirapa.
These wānaka are a combination of formal lessons and informal learning with a hōtaka tamariki as well. Over the last eight months, our whānau learnt wetereo, pūrākau, kā kōrero o nehe, kīwaha, whakataukī/ ākī, waiata, karakia, and para to ensure good learning experiences and connections to our whenua.
Our whānau opening the morning with karakia from outside Huiterakiora.
Ka rere kā mihi ki a Waiariki Parata-Taiapa rātau ko Lily Fraser, ko Tui Peke, ko Rauhina Scott-Fyfe i tō rātau kaha ki te whakaako i kā taoka kāmehameha o poua mā, o taua mā ki kā whānau o te kāika.
He mihi hoki tēnei ki a Flayme Wharerau rātau ko Anahera Lewis, ko Tūmai Campbell, ko Keeley Tūwhāngai, ko Kahukuramihiata Robson i tō rātau tiaki i kā uri whakaheke o te hapū.
Ki te tewe muri i whakataka kai ki kā whānau, ki a Kelly Ann Tahitahi rātau ko Tenaya Brown, ko Frances Robson, ko ora te tinana me te kaupapa i a koutou.
Our whānau opening the morning with karakia from outside Huiterakiora.
For more information about our upcoming reo events, please keep an eye out on our Facebook page and our rūnaka email pānui.
Ētahi o kā whānau nō te kāika me te hapori.
He kōrero whakapapa i waho i te wharenui.
Hōtaka tamariki in full swing. Left: Wā waiata around the ahi after a long day of learning.
Nā Tawini White photos and story.
Taoka Pūoro Wānaka
Kāti Huirapa recently ran a Taoka Pūoro wānaka at Puketeraki Marae. This is our third wānaka held over two years. We invited well known taoka pūoro musicians Alistair Fraser and Mahina-Ina KingiKaui. Kei te waimāria mātou, we are fortunate that Mahina-Ina is a whānau member.
Previously, New Zealand taoka pūoro musicians Ruby Solly (Waihao Rūnaka), Ariana Tikao (Rāpaki Rūnaka) and Pharmacology Lecturer in rongoa Hori Cliquot (Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka) have joined us in Taoka Pūoro wānaka.
Whānau prepared wheua to create kōauau.
of the whānau who attended, back row from
Hori Cliquot, Robert Sullivan, Miriama Parata-Noema, Carolyn Campbell, Mahina-Ina Kingi-Kaui, Alistair Fraser, Morgan Kilkenny, and Adam Keane. Front row: Te Anahera Parata, Rachel Ruckstuhl, Ann Bateman, Kate Bateman, Nikki Crossan, Lily Fraser, Moewai Marsh and Lavinia. – Photo credit Jen Lucas
Mahina-Ina introduced us to all her taoka pūoro, not just to listen to the oro ātaahua (sound), but the health benefits from these taoka. We were privileged to listen to a presentation on the benefits that oro can have on our tinana using taoka pūoro.
We gathered uku from Huriawa Pā and made pūtakitaki on the tātahi rocks. We were pleasantly surprised as most of us got an oro straight away, these pūtakitaki still had to dry. We played our oro to the tai o Araiteuru.
Araiteuru ki uta
Araiteuru ki tai
Araiteuru te waka
Araiteuru tākata…
During this process, our whānau has not only made connections with one another but with the taiao in taoka pūoro. Taoka pūoro has opened up another kaupapa of te ao Māori to continue with, teach and tuku iho (pass down).
Mauri ora e te whānau!
Nā Nikki Crossan
Some
left:
Alistair Fraser and Mahina-Ina Kingi-Kaui. – Photo credit Jen Lucas
Rob and Lavinia creating their Pūtangitangi uku. –Photo credit Claire White.
Mahina-Ina demonstrating her healing practices with a porotiti. –Photo credit Jen Lucas
Kā Mihi Aroha
Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou
Kai te takiauē te kākau ki a rātau kua iri rā ki te hao o Rua, kua mau rā i te kupeka o Taramainuku, kua riro atu rā ki te whare o Pōhutukawa. E rere atu ana kā tai o aroha ki a koutou kā whānau, ka urupā o rātou mā i tēnei wā.
E te rika rehe i rakitāmirohia te aroha ki kā whānau huri noa i Te Waipounamu me Te Ika a-Māui, e Ruka. Kai te hotuhotu te manawa i tō riroka. Haere, hanatu atu rā ki te toi o kā raki, ki tua o Paerau e. Koutou ko tō tira haere, moe mai, moe mai, okioki mai rā.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathy are with whānau who have lost a loved one recently including the whānau of Roka Hurihia Ngarimu-Cameron, Richard Parata, Te Rāhui Denny, née Momo and Flutey. May each whānau find comfort in your memories and from those who surround you with love and care. For those who are in hospital or unwell at home, we wish you a speedy recovery and return to good health.
We welcome your whānau and personal ānui for inclusion in each bi-monthly TPR. Please send your pānui as soon as possible after the event including pēpi hou, ngā mate or memorials, achievements in sports, education or other activities such as visiting the marae, or attending marae hui that build on the traditions or customary practices of your whānau or the rūnaka. Please make a caption and name people in each photo. Send your photos as attachments to your email, to: office@tro.org.nz. Thank you.
Please Note: our pānui for the Ōtākou Appointments Komiti is featured in the back pānui pages of this issue.
Achievements
Anne Robertson was one of the three Ōtākou Watene Māori who attended the poignant ANZAC Dawn Ceremony on 25 April at the Cenotaph, Queens Garden, Dunedin city.
Āio & Kommi Tamati-Elliffe with Liv Owens-McIvor at the Ōtautahi Film Premiere 30 April 2025.
On 30 April in Ōtautahi – James Hay Theatre hosted the Te Waipounamu premiere of the new film, Marlon Williams: Ngā Ao E Rua. Our congratulations go to our extremely talented Kāi Tahu whanauka Marlon Williams for sharing his story and musical genius with the world! We also wish to acknowledge hapū member Liv OwensMcIvor, in-house publicist for her work in the film, and to our very own Kommi Tamati-Elliffe who also features in the documentary as a key collaborator on Williams’ latest reo Māori album Te Whare Tīwekaweka. Kommi and his daughter Āio were also joined by Liv Owens-McIvor –Ōtākou whanauka and in-house publicist at the premiere for the film. Both are absolutely thrilled to play a part in bringing this kiriata Kāi Tahu ki te ao. The album and documentary also feature some of our incredibly talented Ōtākou whanauka from He Waka Kōtuia, Kiringaua Cassidy, Rangimāria Waiatarere, Te Atarau Cassidy, Tawini White alongside her partner Kelly-Ann Tahitahi, Paulette Tamati-Elliffe with her partner Komene Cassidy and Ripeka Pōtiki notably on the track Kōrero Māori, you can see the scene clip at this link: Marlon Williams – Korero Māori (from ‘Marlon Williams: Ngā Ao E Rua – Two Worlds’) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcDVY0FjXhs
Ōtākou Rakatahi Wānaka
Ki Uta Ki Tai
The kaupapa of this wānaka aimed to give rakatahi the opportunity to experience various Kāi Tahu ara tawhito settlements, kāika, and wāhi tapu. The haereka included site visits to Mauka Aoraki, te awa Waitaki, Lake Pukaki, Te Kohurau, Takapō and other various landmarks and traditional mahika kai paths of importance to us as Kāi Tahu iwi.
A highlight focused on foundations for understanding and familiarising with kā whetu, (Night Sky) a tapestry of stories, wisdom and understanding of the natural world with stars like Matariki playing a significant role in our ahurea and our connection to the cosmos.
Te Heika Pounamu Māori Pre-Graduation Ceremony
The pōwhiri was held on 9 May with Taikawa Tamati-Elliffe as Kaikōrero. Amongst the speakers was Emeritus Professor John Broughton from Puketeraki who also addressed the gathering to congratulate these tauira Māori on their incredible achievements.
Left: Te Kaikaraka, Moana Wesley of Ōtākou calls to her counterpart, while to her left, Kaikorero Taikawa Tamati-Elliffe watches on.
From left: Rakatahi had the opportunity to check out and experience Takapo and its Dark Sky project (Star Observatory) and be informed on various Ka Whetu and Pu-rakau by our very own Kāi Tahu Astronomer Tori Campbell; The two pou that were placed at Takiroa, (Māori cave Art); Some of the enthusiastic 15 rakatahi and 5 kaiako kaimahi who attended Wānaka ki Takapō.
Burial of Whakahao
Sometimes the mahi of hapū members is not so pleasant, and in this case local mana whenua met at Te Rauone early in the morning to bury a juvenile whakahao (male sealion).
ACAP – Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels
Objective: ACAP strives, through our 13 international parties, to conserve albatross and petrels by coordinating international activities to mitigate threats to their populations.
In 2019 ACAP’s advisory committee declared that a conservation crisis continues to be faced by its 31 listed species, with thousands of albatrosses, petrels and shearwaters dying every year as a result of fisheries operations. To increase awareness of this crisis ACAP inaugurated a World Albatross Day to be held annually on 19 June from 2020, the date the Agreement was signed in 2001.
left: Local
to bury a
Above: A beautiful female kake sea lion watches the burial happening nearby.
Left: Beyond the beach is the entrance to Otago Harbour, taken early morning from Te Rauone Reserve, 16 April 2025.
Left: Kaikaraka, Amie Curtis welcomes the international members of ACAP who are accompanied by officials from Wellington Below: Hoani Langsbury explains the kaupapa and proceedings to mana whenua before the pōwhiri to ACAP, especially as this is a first, that the conference is being held where Albatross are colonised on a mainland.
Ōtākou was joined by Puketeraki and Moeraki to host the international ACAP members at the marae for a pōwhiri on 22 May. The hākirihākari was followed by a short presentation by mana whenua about the importance of protection for our taoka in our own and international waters! Then the group visited the Royal Toroa colony at Pukekura before returning to the city for their full conference.
Feel free to browse our Facebook page and our Ōtākou Rūnaka website. Information to register as a hapū member or to book the marae for functions can be done online. Bookings are subject to any health and safety restrictions in place at the time including if a tangi becomes apparent which takes precedence: http://www. otakourunaka.co.nz/#home-image or email office.@tro.org.nz or phone 03 478 0352.
Noho ora mai koutou – stay safe whānau.
Above
hapū members gather
young whakahao 16 April ’25 who lost in a fight with a older and larger whakahao.
Waihōpai Rūnanga
Community Day
Following on from the success of our Community Day in 2024, Murihiku Marae hosted our second annual Community Day on Sunday 13April. We welcomed our wider community to celebrate and embrace te ao Māori through a number of mīharo performances, local market and business stalls, ki-o-rahi, weaving and poi making.
Our amazing MC’S Hō and Hā (Cedric Blair and Terrance O’Brien) were back again keeping our crowd engaged during the breaks in performances from Hamiora Tuari, Michael Kuresa, Atuitui Cook Island rōpū and our Secondary School kapahaka groups.
Our tamariki had a blast playing on the bouncy castles and tearing around on the mini jeeps. Kā mihi nui to Greg Houkamau, the Murihiku Ki-o-Rahi rōpū and Active Southland for running our ki-o-rahi and kēmu. The wharekai was jam packed with fun with facepainting and kirituhi, colouring in and board games. We also had poi making and weaving tables with the tautoko and expertise of the Te Kōhaka Reo o Murihiku kaimahi supporting the mahi toi.
We are so greatful for the support of all our volunteers and our Murihiku community for making this possible. We hope you all enjoyed your day and felt the manaakitaka of Waihōpai Rūnaka and our people. Thank you to all of our commnity businesses that provided spot prizes for our whānau.
Te Pūtahitanga Poroporoaki
On 8 May, we had the honour of hosting the poroporoaki for Te Pūtahitanga as Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu take over as the commissioning agency for Whānau Ora. We had the privilege of hosting the launch in Murihiku of Te Pūtahitanga and their 10 year celebration in July 2024 so we hope that our whānaukataka with the kaimahi and whānau of Te Pūtahitanga will continue in the future.
We would like to thank all the Whānau Ora navigators for their support for our whānau and communities over the past 10 years.
Whakawhetai ki a koutou mō tō tautoko!
Fish Futures Wānaka
On 3 May, Te Ao Marama took our Waihōpai Rūnaka whānau on a hīkoi around various sites along the Waihōpai awa as part of our project under the Fish Futures initiative. This was a follow up to the eDNA mahi that Te Ao Marama undertook to see what freshwater species are living in the awa.
We looked at the upper, middle and lower site of the Waihōpai awa to see the water quality and the effects it is having on our taoka species. We chose to focus on the Waihōpai awa as we have little conservation management in place for our taoka species that live in the awa and it is home to the pā site of our whare tipuna, Te Rakitauneke.
Kaumātua Papakāika Units
Bragg Building have been working on our eight new papakāika housing units at Murihiku Marae. We are on the home stretch with the official opening scheduled for 12 June 2025. This project has been a long-awaited dream for our kaumātua and we are excited to have them onsite sharing their mātauraka with our younger generations. We are proud to have an intergenerational marae with our Kōhaka Reo and kaumātua joining our kaimahi onsite.
Te Unua Museum of Southland
Kā Rūnaka ki Murihiku have engaged in a series of wānaka over the past couple of months as part of the planning phase of the Te Unua Permanent Exhibition space currently under development. We gathered our whānau stories and ideas in those sessions and are now refining the whakaaro for the kaupapa and kōrero that will inform the exhibition content to bring these ideas to life.
We were able to visit Te Pātaka as part of these wānaka to view a selection of taoka Māori in the Te Kupeka Tiaki Taoka collection. We will continue working with ICC and Gibson International over to identify our Iwi, hapū and whānau stories for integration in the Te Unua Permanent Exhibition space.
Tikaka and Kawa Hui
On 4 May, Waihōpai Rūnaka held a tikaka and kawa hui for our whānau to learn about the tikaka that surrounds whaikōrero and karaka to ensure that our mātauraka is passed down to our future generations. Kā mihi nui to all our whānau who attended and to Joe Wakefield for his extensive knowledge and tautoko to our whānau. We look forward to holding more of these hui in the future.
Membership
We would love to connect with our wider rūnaka whānau so if you or your whānau would like to register to become a member of Waihōpai Rūnaka, please contact admin@waihopai.org.nz to receive our registration forms.
Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka
Murihiku hīkoi up the Waiau
In April, whānau from the four Murihiku Rūnaka joined a Meridian executive team for a hīkoi up the Waiau. The hīkoi started at the mouth of the Waiau, where we were privileged to hear kōrero from Jane Kitson, Riki Dallas, Gail Thompson and others.
The rōpū stopped at various points along the away and concluded the hīkoi at the Manapōuri a hydro power station located in Fiordland National Park. The Manapōuri Power Station (MPS) was built at the same time as the Tiwai Aluminium Smelter to deliver the electricity needs of the smelter. It’s a complex structure, in what was a pristine environment and of cultural significance to Ngāi Tahu. Manapōuri generates enough electricity for about 619,000 average New Zealand homes.
As Meridian prepares for reconsenting of the hydro scheme in 2031, they are looking to build a stronger strategic partnership with mana whenua. The hīkoi included their key senior leaders, including the incoming CEO Mike Roan, who will be taking over from Neal Barclay on 30 June. It provided an opportunity to share information and commence a conversation around partnership and how we can work together in the future.
Minecraft at the Marae
Following our involvement with creating the virtual version of Patea Doubtful Sound in Minecraft, our members had the opportunity to meet some of the creators and have a go at the game at Takutai o te Tītī. There they found some of our kaumātua – Rangimaria Suddaby performs the karanga as you enter the game and Teoti Jardine and Stewart Bull are characters.
Murihiku ki te Tonga – Operation Endurance Hīkoi to the Subantarctic Islands | March 2025
Images Supplied by Vanessa Horwell I was fortunate to travel to the Subantarctic Islands aboard HMNZS Canterbury in March this year, as part of Operation Endurance, a research and environmental monitoring hīkoi.
Operation Endurance is a partnership between the New Zealand Defence Force, Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, and government agencies, drawing on mātauranga Māori alongside science.
My main involvement was in the taonga plant mahi, where we collected seeds and plant material from Gentianella species on Enderby Island, Maukahuka (Auckland Island), and Motu Ihupuku (Campbell Island). The flowering plants on these islands are particularly vibrant compared to the mainland, with the Gentianella species displaying brilliant purples and pinks.
We also gathered seed from some of the striking Subantarctic megaherbs for propagation and further research on the mainland, including Pleurophyllum and Anisotome. These were a highlight –absolutely stunning in both size and colour.
During our fieldwork, we were lucky to encounter pakake NZ sea lion, and several species of tōroa albatross –including Southern Royal, Antipodean, Campbell, Light-mantled sooty, and Black-browed. On Campbell Island, we also saw the elusive hākawai Campbell Island snipe.
Life aboard Canterbury was an experience in itself, with communal bunkrooms, shared kai in the mess, and the exceptional manaakitanga of the Navy. It was inspiring to see the Defence Force working alongside iwi and DOC to support our kaupapa.
For me, this journey was also about whakapapa. My tūpuna lived along the South Coast, on Whenua Hou, and across Rakiura. They fished and sealed in and around the Subantarctic Islands. Visiting these places renewed our ahikā and connection to the moana and whenua.
Thanks for the opportunity to help with this important mahi.
Whaikōrero / karanga training
A one-hour wānaka to learn karanga and whaikōrero roles is being held at Takutai o te Tītī ahead of our Rūnaka General Monthly Meetings. Rangimaria Suddaby is leading the karanga training and Gary Davis the whaikōrero. Keep an eye out for a weekend wānaka coming up too! And if you’re in our rohe, and keen to kōrero Māori, a group meets in Aparima Riverton on Thursdays. If you would like to know more about these opportunities, please email us: office@orakaaparima.org.nz.
Kākāriki karaka translocation experience
I have a passion for our native manu and our whenua, so being able to connect these two passions by being part of the kākāriki karaka translocation from Christchurch to Pukenui Anchor Island was such a privilege. It was absolutely amazing to help the manu get to their new home safely and hopefully they will flourish in Te Wāhipounamu Fiordland National Park. Highlights included the waka topatopa trip over the southern area, and six days’ mahi on Pukenui Island. I’m really grateful for the opportunity to learn more and experience the whenua islands and to give my time and effort to our native manu and to help my hapu and iwi.
Huge thanks to everyone involved!
Ngā mihi, Joshua kingipotiki
Te Anau Property bookings
We are making some changes to bookings for our whānau house in Te Anau. Bookings are now only available to Oraka-Aparima Rūnaka registered members and will be for a maximum of three nights’ stay over the school holiday summer period (from Friday 19 December to Sunday 25 January). This will mean more whānau members get to enjoy time in Te Anau over the summer holidays. Contact the office about bookings. Email office@orakaaparima.org.nz
Rūnaka
meetings and AGM – get involved!
All registered members are welcome to attend our General Monthly Meetings, either in person or online. Meetings are usually held on the second Sunday of the month at Takutai o te Tītī Marae. We send the agenda and link to attend online out before the meeting. This year’s AGM is on Sunday 12 October. If you would like to attend and are not receiving this information, please contact the office and we’ll check we have your up-to-date details. Email office@orakaaparima.org.nz
A waka ama noho for rangatahi taking part in Te Waka Taihika o Murihiku was held at Takutai o te Tītī earlier this year. The programme is run by Kōrari Māori Public health, which is the health arm of Ōraka-Aparima Rūnaka.
For many of the rangatahi, this was their first time paddling the W6 outrigger canoes on the open moana, which came with its fair share of challenges, including tipping drills!
Kaumatua Support Grant
The Rūnaka has a one-off grant available to support kaumātua with essential everyday living expenses and one-off costs. The amount granted can vary depending on the support required and is decided on an individual basis. The fund is available until it is exhausted. Contact us for more information. We have a variety of other grants available to registered members. Visit the opportunities page on our website www.orakaaparimarunaka.co.nz for more about what is available.
Tertiary Scholarship recipients
Each year we offer a scholarship of up to $2000 for those engaged in tertiary education studies, to go towards fees. Congratulations to all of the recipients and best of luck with your studies!
The 2025 recipients were:
- Amelia Daley, Masters Māori and Indigenous Leadership, University of Canterbury
- Amiria Davis, Bachelor of Social Work, Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka, University of Otago
- Carly Vevers, Master of Art Museum Studies, Massey University
- James Spencer, Bachelor of Laws, University of Auckland
- Kaitlyn McLean, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Arts with Honours, Victoria University of Wellington
- Kate Henry, Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (early childhood), University of Canterbury
- Loren Vincent, Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Pharmacy, University of Otago
- Madi Masaga-Pita, Bachelor of Nursing Pacific, Whitireia
- Millie-Mae Wallace, Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor or Arts (major political science, minor Māori and indigenous studies), University of Canterbury
- Oliver Church, Heke Reo Māori, Diploma in Te Reo Māori, Te Wānanga o Raukawa
- Renee Bull, Poutuarongo Kaitiakitanga Pūtaiao, Te Wānanga o Raukawa
- Sienna Ford, Bachelor of Civil Engineering, University of Canterbury
- William Wallace, NZ Diploma in Construction, Otago Polytechnic
Keep in touch!
If you’re not receiving messages from us, and would like to, please get in touch and we will check we have your up-to-date details. We have lots of opportunities we want to let you know about. Email office@orakaaparima.org.nz or phone 0800 234 8192.
Waka Ama noho ki Takutai o te Tītī
Above: Te Waka Taihika o Murihiku crew. For many of the rangatahi this was their first time paddling on the moana.
Haylee Simeon –Hayz at the Anchorage
Hayz at the Anchorage was recently featured in the May edition of Air New Zealand’s Kia Ora Magazine. If you would like to read more about Haylee and the Hayz at the Anchorage restaurant, please visit www.facebook.com/ hayzattheanchorage
Hayley’s restaurant has also been featured here: https://online.fliphtml5.com/ egslf/peoe/?
He Kupu Whakamutunga
To our Rakiura Rugrats whānau, ngā mihi maioha for your aroha, kōrero and manaakitanga, and to our tamariki – you are a living seed of Rangiātea, forever grounded in these lands. As Matariki rises, we carry this hīkoi in our kete. May its lessons guide us to cherish our whenua, honour our whānaungatanga, and walk softly in the footsteps of those who came before.
Hei te tau hou Māori, ka tū ano tātou!
Nā, Kaimahi, Te Rourou Whakatipuranga
Awarua Rūnanga
WHĀNAU SUBMISSION
Te Hīkoi a Ngā Tamariki Tuakana
Tihei mauri ora! He kākano ahau i ruia mai i Rangiātea, e kore au e ngaro” Kia ora e te iwi, e kā Rūnaka, e kā mana o te taiao!
This May, Te Rourou Whakatipuranga carried the wairua of Mana Aotūroa (exploration and guardianship of our world) to the shores of Rakiura. Our tamariki tuakana, alongside kaimahi, embarked on their hīkoi to deepen their connection to the whenua, the moana, and the enduring stories of mana whenua.
Te Haerenga: Sailing with a Purpose
Under the cloak of an early winter morning, tamariki boarded the ferry to Rakiura, their laughter mingling with the salt-spray of Te Ara a Kiwa. With hearts full of curiosity, they stepped onto the island as mana whenua. A bus kindly gifted by ‘Real Journeys ‘carried our rōpū around the motu, where tamariki stood in awe of the same waters that once cradled the waka of their tūpuna.
The hīkoi blossomed further at the Rakiura Rugrats ECE Centre, where tamariki and kaiako shared a mihi whakatau rich with waiata. This haerenga was no ordinary excursion. It is a taonga woven into our centre’s kaupapa, a promise to nurture kaitiakitanga and whakapapa in every tamaiti, as tamariki traced the footsteps of their tūpuna.
The Allfrey Mitchell whānau welcomed Tom Mitchell Allfrey on 13 March 2025. Tom is the fourth tamariki for Anne and Nick. He is a brother to James, Hazel and Zoe. Mokopuna to Lex, Donna, Paul and Jan. Great mokopuna to Meg.
Taurahere Groups
Ngāi Tahu ki Tauranga Moana
AGM – Whānau Hui
In April, we had our AGM which was opened by our kaumātua, Ross Hemera, with a special welcome, especially to those whānau attending for the first time.
Our rōpū has experienced some recent changes. After seven years of dedicated service to our committee, including six as our secretary, Rachel Chaney will be stepping down from her position. Rachel’s commitment, calm presence, and behind-the-scenes mahi have been deeply appreciated by us all. To acknowledge her contribution, Ross presented her with flowers on behalf of the group – a small gesture of thanks for everything she has given. We’re excited to welcome Roberta Maxwell and Anna Ware, who will be sharing the secretary role moving forward. We’re grateful to them both for stepping into this space and supporting the ongoing work of the rōpū. Moira Lomas will continue in her role as chairperson, and Nichola (Hera) Edwards will remain as treasurer.
Kaumātua Morning Tea
We shared a lovely time with our kaumātua and some returning whānau, including Owen and Jean Bennett. We were also grateful to be joined by several members of the komiti, whose presence made the gathering all the more special. It was a fitting moment to acknowledge Rachel, and to present her with some special taonga in appreciation of her dedication and mahi as secretary.
From left to right – Nichola Edwards, Pirihira Douglas, Caroline McNicol, Jean Bennett, Ross Hemera, Awhina Thatcher, Rachel Chaney, Rebecca Manley , Shona Morris, John Maxwell, Roberta Maxwell, Margaret Stephenson, Joe Morris, Julie Hemera, Owen Bennett.
Above right: Kaumātua morning tea at Elizabeth Café and Larder.
A Gift of Taonga
Ross Hemera presented Jo’el Komene with beautiful art pieces and toroa bones. These taonga were gifted in recognition of the special relationship we shared with Jo’el during his time as the director of Aronui at Tauranga Boys’ College.
As part of the gift, Ross presented him with several meaningful items: some ika from the first Ngāi Tahu ki Tauranga Moana wharenui art project, a few metal ika from the new pou Tahu, a canvas, and finally, the toroa bones. These toroa bones offer Jo’el the chance to carve and create his own musical instruments, a reflection of his deep passion for taonga pūoro.
Ross presenting Rachel some thank you flowers. In the background from left, Amber McNicol and Moira Lomas.
Right – from left: Julie Hemera, Felicity Turner, Matthew Bannister and Olive Irving.
Right: Jo’el Komene with a special piece of artwork from artist Ross Hemera.
Left: Ross presenting Jo’el his gifts.
The Office
Ngāi Tahu Archive
The Ngāi Tahu Archive team is dedicated to working with and for Kāi Tahu whānui to help preserve Kāi Tahu history, protect tribal knowledge, reclaim our heritage, and assist in maintaining and promoting Kāi Tahu identity. Here are some of the highlights from the Ngāi Tahu Archive in the first half of 2025.
Ōnuku Waitangi Day Exhibition – He Ara Roimata ki te Anamata
The Ngāi Tahu Archive team worked with Akaroa Museum and Ōnuku Rūnanga to install the exhibition, He Ara Roimata ki te Anamata – Takapūneke, our journey, our survivance at Ōnuku Marae for their 2025 Waitangi Day commemoration. The exhibition showcased the creation of Pou-tū-te-Raki-o-Te-Maiharanui and the Park of Reflection. It tells the story of the long journey for the site to gain due recognition as a place of cultural and historical significance. The exhibition was originally produced by Akaroa Museum in collaboration with Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, Ōnuku Rūnanga, and the Takapūneke Reserve Co-Governance Group and was hosted at Akaroa Museum from April to November 2024.
Te Rau Aroha Exhibition
The Ngāi Tahu Archive team also supported Te Rūnaka o Awarua to develop a temporary exhibition at Te Rau Aroha Marae for the 40th anniversary commemoration of the opening of the wharekai from 7 - 9 February 2025. Over 600 people visited the exhibition which featured 28 posters narrating the journey to create the wharekai and whare tipuna, Tahu Pōtiki. Following the success of the exhibition, it was reinstalled at Mīharo Murihiku Trust in Invercargill from 25 March – 17 May 2025 to enable the wider community and those who were unable to attend the commemoration, to learn more about the Kāi Tahu history of Awarua.
James Hargest College, Senior Campus – Level 3 Te Reo Māori students (top) and Kāi Tahu kaumātua (above) visiting the Te Rau Aroha 40th anniversary exhibition at Mīharo Murihiku Trust.
Visits to the Ngāi Tahu Archive
The Ngāi Tahu Archive team continues to regularly host manuhiri at its facility. There is a deep interest from within and beyond our tribal communities in the work of the Archive team, the taoka we care for, and the foundational importance of our tribal history. Recent visitors included a rōpū of Ngāi Tūāhuriri kaumātua, and the Kāi Tahu artists collective Paemanu. The Archive also hosted a hui between Murihiku Regeneration and the High Commissioner for Canada in New Zealand.
Right: Ngāi Tūāhuriri kaumātua view an early survey plan of Kaiapoi Reserve 873, (held by our partner agency Archives New Zealand), while visiting the Ngāi Tahu Archive, 15 April 2025.
Murihiku Regeneration and Canadian High Commission hui hosted at the
(Upoko Hokonui Rūnanga and Portfolio Director Murihiku Regeneration), Angela Vesey
Keith Smith (High Commissioner for Canada in NZ), Stuart Prior (Murihiku Regeneration
High Commissioner),
(Murihiku Regeneration Chief Scientist Murihiku ki te Tonga), Takerei Norton (Manager Ngāi Tahu Archive).
Above right: Paemanu visit to the Ngāi Tahu Archive, 23 May 2025.
Joseph Lowthian Wilson photographs now available on Kareao
The Ngāi Tahu Archive team actively works on digital repatriation, obtaining digital copies of archives of tribal significance and ‘repatriating’ them into the Ngāi Tahu Archive. For example, digital copies of photographs of Kāi Tahu people and events (1890s-1920s) taken and collected by Joseph Lowthian Wilson are now available to view on Kareao. Wilson was the North Canterbury reporter and agent for the Christchurch Press from 1864 – 1919. The collection includes photographs of the unveiling of the Kaiapoi Pā monument, the opening of Maahunui I, Kaiapoi Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Maahunui Maori Council hui, and portraits of individuals and groups. The original photographs are held in a series of albums at the Alexander Turnbull Library. View the collection on Kareao by searching for ‘Joseph Lowthian Wilson’ in the search bar or scan the QR code here:
Right: A group of wāhine and tamariki at the Kaiapoi pā monument unveiling, 1899. PA1-q-1135-55-03, Alexander Turnbull Library.
Ngāi Tahu Archive, 16 May 2025. From left: Terry Nicholas
(EA to
Tā Tipene O’Regan,
Chief Scientist Murihiku ki te Tonga), Regina Eisert
Ko heia te kōpaka whakarākau!
This whakataukī speaks about the hanging icicles or hoar frost which are often seen in our inland areas during Makariri or winter.
The KMK team have been busy over the last few months, supporting various reo based kaupapa across our regions, as well as providing our KMK reo events to support whānau reo development..
Kura Reo ki Te Waipounamu 2025
Kura Reo ki Te Waipounamu was held from 13–17 April at Ōtākou Marae. This kura reo is a full immersion, intensive learning environment designed to support intermediate to advanced te reo Māori learners.
Just over 120 dedicated speakers and learners of te reo attended, the majority from across Te Waipounamu as well as a few whānau who made the intrepid journey all the way from Te Ika a Māui. Students participated in specialised te reo sessions taught by a group of top exponents of te reo, including Tākuta Hana O’Regan, Ahorangi Rangi Matamua, Tākuta Karena Kelly, Leon Blake, Henare Te Aika-Puanaki, Kare Tipa, Karuna Thurlow, Kiringaua Cassidy.
A highlight of this years Kura Reo was the tautohetohe, where students took on kaiako in a fierce but friendly debate, which had our puku aching with laughter!
Ka rere kā mihi ki a koutou katoa i tae mai ki te kaupapa nei. Kua rakatira tā tātau kaupapa i a koutou. Anō te pai, te āhua reka o te noho tahi o kā tāina me kā tuakana i ruka i te whakaaro kotahi! Me mihi ka tika ki kā mātaka reo; tau atu, tau atu ko koutou tērā e kaha tautoko ana i a mātau o Te Waipounamu e pīkoko ana ki tō tātau reo matahīapo. Mei kore ake koutou. E kore e mutu kā mihi ki a koutou, mai i te takere o te kākau.
Whāikōrero Wānaka ki Awarua
Te Rūnanga o Awarua held a two-day whaikōrero wānanga supported by KMK over the weekend, 10-11 May. Henare Te Aika and Kiringaua Cassidy provided workshops offering practical advice and tools to help speakers build on their oratory skills. Our heartfelt thanks goes to Keri Milne-Ihimaera and Antonia for your hospitality, ko koutou kā tohuka o te manaaki!
Ngā Manu Kōrero Regional Contest 2025
KMK had the pleasure of supporting the Ōtākou/Murihiku regional Ngā Manu Kōrero Secondary School speech contest, which was held in Dunedin at the Town Hall from Wednesday 28 – to Thursday 29 May. With an ever-increasing number of contestants, this years competition saw a record 45 young speakers take the stage, representing schools from across the Otago / Southland region.
Congratulations to the following speakers who won their respective sections, who will represent the region at the National event in September 2025:
• Pei Te Hurinui – Senior Māori: Hana Davis, Te Wharekura o Arowhenua
• Korimako – Senior English: Zane Rakete-Gray, Kings High School
• Tā Rāwhiti Ihaka – Junior Māori: Kyra Batchelor, Te Wharekura o Arowhenua
• Sir Turi Carroll – Junior English: Ngaki Kiore, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ōtepoti
Upcoming Events:
Hai Reo Tuku Iho: Starts 22 July 2025
Registrations are now open for our online 6-week introductory programme, ‘Hai Reo Tuku Iho’. This programme is for Kāi Tahu whānau who are starting out on their journey, looking to become a te reo Māori speaking household. This online course will help whānau to understand language revitalisation and equip them with the tools to map out their own whānau language plan.The course is free and resources will be provided. Priority will be given to those Kāi Tahu registered whānau with tamariki under 5.
Te Hautoka – Kapa Haka Contest
As we write this, we are preparing to support Te Hautoka, Otago/Southland Secondary School kapa haka contest. A panel of 14 judges will adjudicate the 14 kapa haka who have entered to compete for the top two places to qualify for the National kapa haka contest in July next year.
We wish all our rakatahi and their tutors the best of luck! Karawhiua!
Kaupapa
Āhea / Ki hea
Kura Reo Rakatahi 1-4 July Venue TBC
Kia Kūrapa ki Ōraka Aparima 4-6 July
Hai Reo Tuku Iho 22 July – 26 August Online
Kia Kūrapa ki Tuahiwi 5-7 September
Kia Kūrehu ki Arowhenua 17-19 October
Taumata Reo
All levels 13-18 years
Beginners to intermediate
Absolute beginners
Beginners to intermediate
Intermediate
Top row: Hana Davis; Zane Rakete-Gray; middle row: Ngaki Kiore; Kyra Batchelor; above: Group of Speakers Ngā Manu Kōrero 2025).
Pānui
Significant Exhibition on Hōri Kerei (H.K.) Taiaroa
H.K. Taiaroa: ‘Kua marara hoki ngā mana o tōna kaha ki runga i te katoa.’ will open in August at Dunedin Public Art Gallery.
H.K. Taiaroa with his wife Tini Kerei Taiaroa and their grandchildren Tini Taiaroa Ellison and Ria Mohiko Wineera, c.1900. Photographer unknown, Hocken Collections –Uare Taoka o Hākena, P1951-004/1-021
This exhibition focuses on H.K. Taiaroa, the 19th century Kāi Tahu rakatira and political leader, and his life alongside his wife Tini Kerei Taiaroa. Brought together with newly created artwork, archive materials, taoka tuku iho, voices of descendants and existing artworks by contemporary Māori artists to offer a view into his life and legacy. The project has been developed as a collaboration between Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou, Riki Te Mairaki Ellison Taiaroa Whānau Trust and Dunedin Public Art Gallery.
This year will mark the 120th anniversary since H.K. passed, on 4 August 1905. A day of public celebrations on 3 August will open the exhibition, which will run until Sunday 23 November 2025 in Ōtepoti.
Born at Ōtākou to parents Te Mātenga and Mawera, H.K. married Tini Kerei Taiaroa who was well regarded as an intelligent community leader; they had six sons. H.K. is known for his tireless efforts as a Southern Māori Member of Parliament and on the Legislative Council, where he worked as a tenacious leader to represent his people.
“The exhibition is an opportunity to focus on the lifelong effort of Hōri Kerei Taiaroa to achieve justice and security for his people in the wake of the historic land sales and broken promises, to remember and honour his legacy,” says Edward Ellison, Ōtākou Rūnaka Upoko.
Michelle Taiaroa, chair of the Riki Te Mairaki Ellison Taiaroa Whānau Trust, adds: “This exhibition offers a look into such a turbulent yet special time in the city’s creation. Generally known as a Scottish city, I have always known it to be much more than that. We invite the public to share in the life of our tipuna.”
Ka mua, ka muri – guided by the past, looking into the future. Experience the mana and kaha of these Kāi Tahu tīpuna in the 19th century and come away enriched with knowledge to inspire future generations.
Te Rūnanga ō Ōtākou Inc
45 Tamatea Road Ōtākou RD2 New Zealand
Road
Ōtākou RD2
New Zealand
Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou Appointment Committee Election Process
Opens 2nd July 2025
Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou Appointment Committee Election Process Opens 2nd July 2025
SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR THE ŌTĀKOU APPOINTMENTS COMMITTEE
SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR THE ŌTĀKOU APPOINTMENTS COMMITTEE
The Appointment Committee will be responsible for appointing Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu (TRoNT) Representative and Alternate Representative for the next three year term. This committee will be made up of seven (7) registered Rūnaka members. We are:
The Appointment Committee will be responsible for appointing Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu (TRoNT) Representative and Alternate Representative for the next three year term. This committee will be made up of seven (7) registered Rūnaka members. We are:
• seeking nominations from Otakou Rūnaka members to be on the Appointment Committee;
• seeking nominations from Otakou Rūnaka members to be on the Appointment Committee;
Notice of release of the Owner’s Website and invitation to update the Owner’s contact information.
Tēnā koutou katoa,
The trustees invite all Tautuku Waikawa Lands Trust owners to access the owners’ website, www.twlt.maori.nz, and update their contact details so that the trust can communicate ongoing news and updates.
• inviting all members of Ngāi Tahu Whānui who have established by whakapapa their eligibility to register with Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou.
• inviting all members of Ngāi Tahu Whānui who have established by whakapapa their eligibility to register with Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou.
We also invite owners in the following sections to make contact and update their contact records through the same process.
The nominees shall meet the following criteria:
The nominees shall meet the following criteria:
• Section 15 Block XIII
(i) must be over 18 years of age and registered members of Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou;
(i) must be over 18 years of age and registered members of Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou;
(ii) must have demonstrated active participation in Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou for a minimum of one (1) year, by regular attendance at Rūnanga meetings, or regular participation in Rūnanga affairs; and
(ii) must have demonstrated active participation in Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou for a minimum of one (1) year, by regular attendance at Rūnanga meetings, or regular participation in Rūnanga affairs; and
(iii) must not be a current TRoNT Representative or Alternate Representative, if reapplying.
(iii) must not be a current TRoNT Representative or Alternate Representative, if reapplying.
Nomination forms are available from the Ōtākou office, 03 478 0352 / office@tro.org.nz
Nomination forms are available from the Ōtākou office, 03 478 0352 / office@tro.org.nz
Nominations must be received at the Ōtākou office by 12pm 6th August 2025 No late nominations will be received
Nominations must be received at the Ōtākou office by 12pm 6th August 2025. No late nominations will be received
Addressed to: Att Operations Manager, Re Appointments; Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, 45 Tamatea Road, Ōtākou RD2, Dunedin 9077; or by email: Bridget@tro.org.nz
Addressed to: Att Operations Manager, Re Appointments; Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, 45 Tamatea Road, Ōtākou RD2, Dunedin 9077; or by email: Bridget@tro.org.nz
MEETING OF BENEFICIARIES
Arowhenua 881 Village Section No 3B – Kamaka
Tēnā koutou katoa,
Tel: 03 478 0352 www.otakourunaka.co.nz
Email: office@tro.org.nz
The trustees hereby give notice of a meeting of beneficiaries for the above Māori Reservation.
For photographs and graphics please send to: Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu PO Box 13-046, CHRISTCHURCH ISSN 1175-2483 (Online: ISSN 2357-2051) Opinions expressed in Te Pānui Rūnaka are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu.
This photograph came to us from Doug and Margaret Huria. It shows the Tuahiwi Rugby Club Team c1900. The following names were identified by R J Huria in 1985: 1. Dominic Korako, 2. William Alexander Russell, 5. Doley Pitama, 6. Frank Huria, 7. Koto, 8. Stone Pitama, 12. Tuggi Flutey, 13. Ripper Kelly (Nipper), 17. George Arthur Pollard Huria, 20. Stuart Pullin, 21. Sonny Kelly, 22. Jim Pohio, 25. E Barret, 26. Joseph Puneke Huria, 27. William Karaitiana, 28. John Weka Huria, 29. Sonny Korako.
If you are able to help us with further information or can identify anyone in the image that is not yet named, please contact Robyn Walsh in the Ngāi Tahu Archives unit on 0800 Kāi Tahu (0800 524 8248), we would love to hear from you.
