Kōhao Rau Rangatahi Rau Report

In ANZAC weekend of this year (23rd-26th April), over 40 Ngāti Awa rangatahi representing 18 of our Ngāti Awa hapū gathered from around Aotearoa at Te Hokowhituā-Tū Marae. Kōhao Rau Rangatahi Rau, was a weekend inspired by the whakataukī ‘Ko Awanuiārangi, kōhao rau, tangata rau’ celebrating the abundance, prosperity, and potential that is our inheritance as urī of Awanuiārangi. Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa generously supported the wānanga, as a kaupapa lead completely by Ngāti Awa rangatahi, for Ngāti Awa rangatahi. Whakawhānaungatanga, workshops, kai, kōrero, wānanga, and visiting sites of significance to our Iwi characterised the wānanga, bringing together a rich tapestry of interests, backgrounds, and life experience. Our kaikōrero and panel discussions evidenced Ngāti Awa excellence across a range of fields and kaupapa, giving so much for our generation to be proud of and inspired to contribute to.

At the conclusion of our time together was the acknowledgement that Ngāti Awa rangatahi have the energy, skills, and desire to contribute to the Iwi, and are looking for opportunities to do so, under the guidance and direction of those who fought for our future so far. Opportunities to return home and learn more about who we are, are invaluable and have a significant impact on Iwi identity and pride. Ngāti Awa rangatahi feel strongly about the issues facing our Iwi, and, with guidance and support, want to be involved in creating solutions. We look forward to seeing more opportunities for Ngāti Awa rangatahi to connect, learn, and contribute meaningfully in the years to come.

E mihi ana ki ngā ringa āwhina katoa, i tautokohia tēnei o ngā kaupapa whakahirahira. Mei kore ake koutou!

‘Ko Awanuiārangi, kōhao rau, tangata rau’