Te Hookioi Issue 30

ISSUE 30 ISSUE 30 -- HEPETEMA HEPETEMA // SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2009 2009

ISSN 1173-7530

Royal Standard Coat of Arms known as Te Paki o Matariki

KO MANAWA TENEI E TARE NEI HIKITIA HAPAINGA KI TONA TAUMATA TAPU The central figure MANAWA urges the people “kia Manawa nui ki te tangata’ to show regard for others. The two hands of Manawa hold his tongue symbolising that people should be cautious with what they say.

The CROSS is a symbol of Christianity which is an important concept within Kiingitanga. It was included in the Royal Coat of Arms at the request of King Tawhiao.

Manawa is sheltered by MATARIKI or PLEADIS - the constellation that heralds the Maaori New Year and signals a new beginning.

Matariki has six daughters that make up the constellation: Tupu-a-nuku; Tupu-a-rangi; Waiti; Waita; Waipuna-a-rangi; and Ururangi.

This insignia was originally created by Te Ao Katoa of Waikato Raukawa and Tiwai Paraone of Ngaati Whanaunga Hauraki. They were two of the tohunga of the Io cult in the ancient Whare Waananga.

The phrase TE PAKI O MATARIKI came to represent a plea for calm to be widespread among the people.

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Koroneihana Celebrations 2009

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Scenes from Koroneihana

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You bet Aotearoa has talent!

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Greenstone mere returns to the Waikato

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Iwi Leaders Forum

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Sports Results

Special Feature 09

The Flight of Te Hookioi

Waikato te Awa 14

MOU NZ Historic Places Trust

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Independent Scoping Study

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Bernard Fergusson Trip to Te Paina

Sports

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Dale Verstappen - playing for pride

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BMX Whaanau-fanatics

Other

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Kaumaatua Medical Grants

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Raupatu, redress and resurgence

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Health Researcher Marie Benton

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2010 Tainui Waka Kapa Haka Festival

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Marae Insurance Package

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Maramataka

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Pepi Pack Competition

COVER: In this edition Kuiarangi Paki talks to Tainui Filmmaker Tearepa Kahi about his documentary “The Flight of Te Hookioi” - a film that gives insight into the origins of the tribe’s quarterly publication.

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SCENES FROM KORONEIHANA CELEBRATIONS 2009 Top left: Kiingi Tuheitia addresses the multitudes.

A celebration commemorating the third year of Kiingi Tuheitia’s coronation, commenced with Indoor Bowls and concluded 22 days later with kapa haka performances.

A mammoth effort of many, this year’s celebrations were enjoyed by all!

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YOU BET AOTEAROA HAS TALENT!

It took courage and panache, but 12 contestants rose to the challenge and produced a wonderful night of entertainment during Koroneihana’s Aotearoa Has Talent show.

Hosted in the classic halls of Kimiora, the show featured an amazing array of contestants ranging in age from 12 to 65 years.

Judged by a panel of renowned artists including everyone’s favourite ‘Auntie Mabel’ Wharekawa-Burt and Waikato musicians Leon Wharekura, Wiremu Hohaia and Pikiteora Mura-Hita, the contestants performed to a packed hall in front of Kiingi Tuheitia.

“There were two definite atmospheres on the night.

“The front of the house was vibrant, exciting and alive. The audience embraced the contestants and encouraged them through their performances.

“Backstage however was nerve-racking. It was a big deal for many of them to perform in front of their King and indeed in front of the motu,” said show coordinator Iharaera Henare (Ngaati Mahuta, Tuurangawaewae Marae).

With the dynamic T Sistaz as MCs for the night, performances included singing acts both original and cover songs, a performer accompanied by a live band, and a dance routine by a daring and hilarious Michael Jackson impersonator.

There could only be one winner and the big prize went to Te Arohanui Mangu who took home the $500 cash prize, wowing the judges with her jazzed-up rendition of Nat King Cole’s ‘Route 66’.

“It was a tight competition but what stood out for the judges was her confidence, her interaction with the crowd, her enjoyment on stage, topped off with her vocal ability,” Iharaera said.

Organisers are hoping to stage another Aotearoa Has Talent next year.

“I’m already looking at the panel of judges and of course printing more tickets! Sorry to those who missed out and couldn’t vote. We’ll have more tickets at next year’s Koroneihana.” •

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Greenstone mere returns to the Waikato

It was said to have once belonged to King Tawhiao and the brief appearance of the precious mere during this year’s Koroneihana celebrations, was a special occasion for the tribe.

Earlier this year kaumaatua Hone Haunui travelled to Queenstown with kuia Tutata Matatahi and Waikato Museum’s Moana Davey, to uplift the mere from a private collector.

According to accounts, the mere was presented to Judge Thomas H Smith by King Tawhiao as a symbol of friendship. Judge Smith is said to have been a Native Land Court Judge from 1865 until his retirement in 1876.

Around 1924, the mere was registered by a Mr Ziman of Auckland. Shortly after it was sold to the Ford family where it remained for the next eight decades until it was recently purchased by the Waikato Museum.

Following a special ceremony, the mere was brought to Tuurangawaewae Marae for the public to view during Koroneihana.

The age criteria for Waikato-Tainui Kaumaatua Medical Grants has been lowered to 60 years, and the conditions of what the grant can be used for have also been extended!

The maximum grant is $500 and can only be applied for once every 12 months.

Registered tribal members aged 60 years plus, can now apply for a grant to help cover costs for medical or health related purposes such as: • Eye treatments, including the cost of glasses.

• Dental treatments, including the cost of dentures.

• Hearing treatments, including the cost of hearing aids.

• Any specialist treatment including x-rays, tests, mammograms and physical aids.

• Mobility equipment.

• Heating equipment (excluding firewood, gas bottle refills).

• Payment of annual medical insurance premiums.

• Membership in Medic Alert, St John Ambulance and other health and safety schemes.

• Other general purposes will be considered. Evidence from a provider (a receipt or an invoice) must be supplied.

Waikato-Tainui branded jackets can also be purchased through a Kaumaatua Medical Grant.

Ladies and Mens style jackets are available along with bigger sizes (5XL for men and 20-22 for women).

For more information, please contact: Grants Officer Jackie Haggie Freephone: 0800 TAINUI Email: jackieh@tainui.co.nz

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2009 Iwi Leaders Forum Thursday, 20 August 2009 Hopuhopu The Iwi Leaders Forum held during this year’s Coronation celebration, was a magnificent opportunity for tribes around the country to strengthen alliances, share ideas, and create innovative approaches to addressing important issues of water, climate change, constitutional reform and economic opportunities.

Convenor of the forum and Chair of Te Arataura Tukoroirangi Morgan, said that working with other tribes in a significant way, reinforces the whakapapa ties of the Kiingitanga with all of Maaoridom. He said these relationships provide the context to building a much more cohesive and co-ordinated approach to growing socio-economic power in Aotearoa.

“The necessity to unite as a people is even more important in the face of the financial recession. With an increased urgency to conclude treaty settlements, and the resources they provide, Maaori are well poised to launch into the future,” said Mr Morgan.

“Looking beyond our shores for successful models of social and economic development, is critical to widening our own horizons in Aotearoa.

“Providing innovative and robust strategies to grow the capacity of our communities, is an exciting challenge.”

Special thanks to the participants and key note speakers including the Hon. Dr Pita Sharples, Sir John Goulter, Judge Caren Fox, Dr Apirana Mahuika, Sir Archibald Taiaroa and Mark Solomon.

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INTERVIEW WITH KUIARANGI PAKI Tainui Filmmaker Tearepa Kahi (Ngaati Hine/Ngaati Paoa, Maurea Marae, Wharekawa Marae), is an international award winning short filmmaker and the Chairman of Ngaa Aho Whakaari, the National Maaori Television and Film Body.

For the past 12 years he has worked as a director, writer and producer with an impressive list of credits which includes the award-winning short film TAUA, and the documentaries: First Time in Prison (TV3); The Native’s School (TVNZ); and Hawaiki (Maori Television Service).

Married to Reikura, and an adoring father to his children Te Rangihoua and Rereiao, Tearepa talks about his life, career and his upcoming documentary, ‘The Flight of Te Hookioi’ a story which follows the footsteps of two men from Tainui who travelled to Vienna 150 years ago, and returned with a printing press.

The printing press that started it all...

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Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I was born in Papanui, Christchurch.

We would travel up from the south once a year to see my grandparents who lived in Pukekohe - Hera Kahi (nee Thompson) of Kaiaua, and Taruhae (George) Kahi from Maurea Marae. On the annual road trips my job was to hand out the sandwiches and keep my father awake at the wheel.

Maybe that’s where I first became interested in long-winded stories. ‘Eye spy with my little eye’ would only get us three kilometres north of Kaikoura.

I left high school to join the circus Te Raakau Hua - a Maaori theatre company, where we staged plays and devised drama anywhere and everywhere. After a year or so I shifted to Auckland to do my BA in New Zealand History. The move north was possibly more about reconnecting with my nana than anything else.

So how did you get involved in film and television?

Student life led to a strict diet of tuna and rice. The narrow diversity in cuisine meant that when a ‘production runner’ job aimed at poor students was advertised, I went for it!

It’s easy to see that production runner is an industry phrase for ‘table layer’ and ‘taxi driver’, but through being in the ‘right place at the right time,’ by the end of the television production I was helping direct it. All to say, I’ve been directing across all forms of television and for all channels now for 12 years.

Why did you choose to make The Flight of Te Hookioi?

In television and film, every project has its own merits but the key to making good television is by not treating a story as a project or even worse, a job.

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It must above all else, be a story that you love learning, researching, writing, discovering, telling and sharing.

And the story of two men from Ngaati Maniapoto and Waikato, Wiremu Toetoe and Hemara Te Rerehau, who sailed to Austria on board the S.M. Novara, and returned from Europe with a printing press courtesy of the Emperor Franz Joseph, was and is, such a story. Te Hookioi became the mouthpiece of our Kiingitanga via the first Maaori owned and operated publication.

Any way you look at it, this story is exciting, intriguing, unique and it’s ours!

This has been the most exciting kaupapa I’ve undertaken in my entire career as a director. I’ve told many stories in television and some in film, but the journey of Toetoe and Te Rerehau gave me a deeper appreciation of what our tuupuna went through as they sought to understand and respond to the changing world of their time. They were not bystanders.

They were change agents and they did it on both a national and international level.

What was most memorable for you about this documentary?

The ‘love factor’ often comes from stories from within our iwi, hapuu and whaanau, and many of these stories have through time, amassed and integrated a number of mythic elements making it hard to get to the truth of the story itself.

Assisting the navigation between fact and fiction was the work of a number of academics both in New Zealand and in Vienna - key people such as Dr. Georg Sauer, Dr. Sascha Nolden but most of all, New Zealand’s own Dr. Helen Hogan who wrote ‘Bravo, Neu Sealand’.

Dr. Hogan’s support along with four months of research and help from the whaanau and descendants of Te Rerehau, allowed key story elements to come together.

There was one other contributing factor, and that was the endorsement of Kiingi Tuheitia. His approval and warrant led to the opening of many significant archival doors in Vienna.

From this, we were able to make new discoveries of the ‘Hookioi Story’, which had previously existed only in the German language and out of public view.

Furthermore, Te Rerehau wrote the first international travel diary in the history of Maaori and he wrote it in Te Reo o Tainui.

It’s a landmark publication, both because of its language value and its content. Following in the footsteps of his journal, his story and his observations, was like walking through physical pages of history - a history that can still be felt.

The other fascinating points would be spoilers so everyone will just have to tune in when the documentary goes to air.

What was it like returning to Te Kotahitanga Marae and presenting your findings?

Nothing surpassed returning to the story’s own point of origin, to the descendants of Te Rerehau at Te Kotahitanga Marae and presenting them with the various Viennese findings.

This was the highlight of the entire production and story for me.

The Austrian National library, Austrian Imperial Palace and National Museum couldn’t compare to Te Kotahitanga Marae where direct descendants of Te Rerehau and Toetoe awaited our presentation.

You had a special viewing at this year’s Koroneihana?

It was a big moment - a moment of truth. A ‘packed-out’ Kimiora is always daunting and exciting at the same time. But when the credits rolled, there was a real sense of satisfaction.

And when everyone who saw it asked me the next day about getting copies, it felt like all the sleep deprivation was worth it.

What do you want people to take from this documentary?

The hope is that this story will remain for all of Tainui as a connector, leading us to learn more about our incredible past and the people who shaped it. As our iwi grows, so too must our stories, story mediums and our storytellers.

Ultimately what are you looking to achieve with your career?

At present I’m producing an IWI profile series which of course features Waikato. I’m also writing a feature film and executive producing a short film POD for the New Zealand Film Commission. If anyone out there from Tainui has a short film idea or script, check out www.kurashorts.maori.nz.

Screens on Maori Television, Wednesday 21st October at 8.30pm.

But ultimately I want to create stories that inspire my children, Te Rangihoua and Rereiao •

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A new exhibition about Waikato Raupatu will feature at the Waikato Museum in Hamilton later this month.

will open on September 25 and provides an overview of historical events surrounding raupatu, from the land confiscations of the 1860s through to the current developments of Waikato-Tainui today.

It continues the story of Kiingitanga with a “current affairs outlook”, says Moana Davey, Waikato Museum’s Concept Leader – Tangata Whenua.

“We hope visitors will glean some understanding about the history of Waikato-Tainui and raupatu, treaty redress, and the resurgence of Waikato-Tainui as an economic force. To understand our future we need to understand our past. We hope that the segment will stimulate discussion and provide a modern face to Tainui iwi,” she said.

The exhibition will be on display for two years and will feature a timeline outlining key events and significant dates. A special taonga has been created by carver Wi Kuki Kingi, the grandson of Inia Te Wiata.

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It depicts the kaupapa of Te Mana o Te Awa and Mana Whakahaere, both key values of the Waikato River settlement, acknowledging the river as a source of life that sustains the body and spirit of its people.

There are future plans for other Waikato-Tainui exhibitions and Moana says she is looking forward to working with the tribe and sharing more of our stories.

Health Researcher and Pharmacologist

When health researcher and pharmacologist Marie Benton decided she wanted to investigate whether the consumption of eel could prevent diabetes, she knew it was going to be a major undertaking.

The urbanisation of Maaori in the 1950s is thought to have been a major contributing factor to the rise of diabetes, as well as the poor supply of eel in parts of the country due to hydroelectric dam projects.

“Most people laughed at this notion. It was difficult in the context of western science to understand how the long-finned eel as part of a traditional Maaori diet, could stem type-2 diabetes. I knew it was going to be a very difficult challenge and would require extensive research,” explained Marie (Ngaati Mahuta/Ngaati Pou, Tuurangawaewae Marae).

A move towards a more Western Diet and lifestyle, explained Marie, would mean you were more likely to develop type-2 diabetes. She proposed the theory that the omega-3 found in eel acted as a defense.

Researching the benefits of high consumption of eel through traditional eating habits, formed part of Marie’s PhD which explored the sudden increase of type-2 diabetes in Maaori after the 1960s. She specifically researched the omega-3 fatty acid found in high quantities of eel, as a form of prevention to the disease.

Over a 10 year period, and with the support of WaikatoTainui kaumaatua, Marie compared the eating habits of two groups – those who consumed eel on a regular basis and maintained a relatively traditional diet of fruit, vegetables and water; and those with a more western diet often high in saturated fats.

The results she said were alarming.

“Many of those with traditional eating habits and who consumed high amounts of eel either smoked or stewed, were still very active and had not developed type-2 diabetes. Sadly all of those in the second group developed diabetes and all but two of them have since passed away.”

“I’d been to many Poukai and had several discussions with various people. Through that koorero I became interested in eating habits and the impacts of the urban migration on many of our whaanau. With guidance from our kaumaatua, particularly Motu Katipa and Daphne Morgan, I embarked on my research and focused on Waikato-Tainui as a case study for my thesis.”

As part of the testing process, Marie had the eels chemically analysed. Even after storage and smoking, eel were found to contain high levels of omega-3, far higher than salmon and on a par with sardines.

“Ultimately this is only a single component in terms of preventing type-2 diabetes.

“In addition to the consumption of eel high in omega-3, you must also live a healthy and active lifestyle by exercising regularly, being alcohol and smoke free, and of course by adopting a diet rich in fruit and vegetables.

“Traditionally this was what many Maaori diets once consisted of.” •

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Progressing the Deed of Settlement...

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Waikato-Tainui and the New Zealand Historic Places Trust was signed last month and fulfils one of the obligations under the Kiingitanga Accord in the Deed of Settlement for the Waikato River.

The MOU focuses purely on Waikato-Tainui’s relationship with waahi tapu (sites of significance) and complements the Waikato-Tainui Accord with the Ministry for Arts, Culture and Heritage, providing for the management and ownership of taonga and artefacts.

“This MOU acknowledges the cultural, historical and tribal importance of waahi tapu to Waikato-Tainui. Our organisations will fulfil the responsibilities and obligations passed on by our ancestors to protect, manage and enhance our sites of significance,” said Te Arataura Chair Tukoroirangi Morgan.

The MOU provides for Waikato-Tainui to: • initiate Heritage Covenants with private landowners to protect sites of significance;

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• serve notice to territorial authorities of a Heritage Order by the tribe; • make decisions on any application to destroy, damage or modify archaeological sites; • acquire historical information held by the NZ Historic Places Trust; and • have direct input into policy and plans the organisation develops.

The next step for Waikato-Tainui is to become the first iwi to be registered as a Heritage Protection Authority for the tribal area.

This will strengthen the tribe’s position as decision makers for waahi tapu and taonga.

Independent Scoping Study Hui with Waikato River iwi were held last month as part of an independent scoping study to determine a comprehensive clean-up programme for the Waikato River.

The scoping study is a year-long project derived from the Waikato River Deed of Settlement signed with the Crown in August 2008. The study will identify the likely costs associated with the clean-up of priority areas.

Led by scientists from the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), the study includes the integration of Maatauranga Maaori with western science – an international first.

At a series of hui held with Waikato-Tainui, Raukawa, Maniapoto, Ngaati Tuuwharetoa and Te Arawa, participants were given the opportunity to discuss with scientists their knowledge and experiences along the awa. Some of the koorero shared included stories about plant and fish species, as well as sites of significance.

“When we were children there were plenty of tuna and we knew where to find them. Now they’re either all gone or there’s not many left,” has been a common concern heard at the hui.

Governed by the Guardians Establishment Committee (GEC), the interim co-management board which led the development of the vision and strategy to restore and protect the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River, the study will include the river’s tributaries, wetlands and lakes from the Huka Falls (Taupo), to Te Puuaha o Waikato (Port Waikato). The Waipaa River catchment is also included in the study area.

A further round of hui will be held later in the year for NIWA to present the koorero collected, and outline the next steps. It is expected the scoping study will be completed

by June 2010.

For more information go to www.river.org.nz or contact GEC Secretariat Manager, Tuti Cooper on (07) 824 7457, or email Tuti.Cooper@river.org.nz. • Images: NIWA staff koorero with hui participants about the Waikato River Independent Scoping Study.

“River iwi and the Crown have entered into a new era of comanagement so the significance of the scoping study and its findings, will provide options to achieve this vision,” said GEC co-chair and Crown representative Gordon Blake.

“Discussions and input will help raise awareness about restoration of the river’s current state, and will offer all parties the opportunity to be a part of that process.”

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For 10-year-old student Brodie Numanga (Paaraawera - Te Taumata Marae), retracing Princess Te Puea’s journey along the Waikato River from Te Paina to Ngaaruawaahia last month, was “way too cool and way better then reading about it in the classroom!”

Brodie (pictured alongside his class mate Te Rauorewa Clarke), was one of the senior students of Te Kura Kaupapa Maaori o Bernard Fergusson who commemorated the epic journey made by Te Puea and 170 others, exactly 88 years ago to the day.

Hosted by Waikato-Tainui, with support from Genesis Power, Environment Waikato, the Department of Conservation, Kootare Ventures, and Kia Ata Mai Educational Trust, Principal Paul Royal said it “was a memorable experience enjoyed by all”.

He also gave special thanks to the organisations who provided six boats with skippers, and sponsorship to ensure as many students as possible could participate in the interactive lesson.

“The kids had a blast! Many were given the opportunity to pilot boats they were on for short periods of time - a first for most.

“I’m optimistic that as well as remembering the sights, sounds and smells they experienced, students will also recall the significance of retracing the journey of Te Puea maa, the reason for the journey, and the task that they accomplished by laying the foundations for Tuurangawaewae Marae as it is today.” • Image: Courtesy of Norman Hill, Ranger Waikato River, Department of Conservation.

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He’s a humble young man who says he’s not too keen on all the local publicity he’s been getting lately...

But rising rugby league star Dale Verstappen realises that the offer to play in Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL) competition, is an opportunity of a lifetime and one that many his age strive for.

“I’m pretty stoked. It is a big deal so I’m going to give it everything and see where it leads,” says Dale (Ngaati Whaawhaakia, Ngaati Tiipa, Ngaati Koroki-Kahukura, Tuurangawaewae Marae).

The 17-year-old prop/second-rower has accepted a two year contract with the Sydney-based NRL club Newcastle Knights. Dale was scouted by the Knights Strategic Development Officer at the National Maaori Rugby League age-group tournament held in Rotorua earlier this year.

He turned out an impressive performance for the Waikato Maaori U18 team and was named in the tournament squad. All this despite playing with a broken wrist.

“I injured it before the tournament and thought it was just sprained. There was a slight niggling but it wasn’t too uncomfortable where I felt like I couldn’t play,” said Dale, who is in his final year at Hamilton’s St John’s College.

At 6’2” and 94kgs, the teenager has been playing rugby league for Ngaaruawaahia’s Tuurangawaewae Rugby League Club since he was five years old.

His whaanau are ardent rugby league followers adds Dale, so it seemed only natural for him to get involved.

“It’s a huge part of my life and that of my whaanau. It’s in the blood and you play for more than just the game, you’re playing for pride. I owe a lot to my whaanau who have carted me around and supported my development.

Without them, I probably wouldn’t be doing so well.”

Dale heads to Newcastle for pre-season training after his school exams in November, and as part of the contract he is set to train with the U20 and U18 squads.

For now however, he says he’s taking each day one step at a time.

“My focus right now is school and completing my exams.

“The dream of playing professional league is a step closer, but I know I have to balance it with my studies so I’m going to do some papers while I’m over there.

“I’m realistic and know my career will end at some stage so I’m preparing myself for life after league.” • TE HOOKIOI - HEPETEMA/SEPTEMBER 2009

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The Pene kids are an exceptional bunch.

Eldest sister Kayla (13) and her younger brothers Ihakara (11) and 8-year-old Tuhoto-Ariki, have been carving up the New Zealand BMX racing scene since they first got involved with the sport over five years ago.

Members of the New Zealand squad that attended the World Championships in July – the first time they have competed at a world competition, this dynamic trio have set their sights on world domination.

“I want to be a world champion and I want to compete at the Olympics in 2016 – that would be the ultimate goal for me,” says Kayla who is currently ranked No 5 in NZ for her age group, and whose determination is clear to see.

“I’m injured at the moment with my foot and I’ve been in hospital the past two weeks, but I can’t wait to get back into training.”

Ihakara and Tuhoto both share her sentiments. “Yip I want to be top in the world too,” says Tuhoto, the current NZ Champion for his age group – a title he has held over four consecutive years. “Aye Hakara, we wanna be world champions too,” he gestures to his older brother. With a raise of his eyes and stern nod of his head, Ihakara grins.

“Yeah that’s what I want...and I’m gonna do it!”

Ihakara has good reason to be confident. He was recently selected to trial in his age division for a New Zealand squad to compete in a Trans-Tasman BMX showdown with Australia later this year.

Born and raised in Rotorua, the Pene kids are students at Te Kura Kaupapa Maaori o Ruamata and whilst many of their friends and peers are socialising on Bebo or enjoying Playstation 3, the Pene kids are off playing any sport they can get stuck into.

Their father Robert has whakapapa ties to Ngaati Tipa and Te Kotahitanga Marae through his grandmother, and says the whaanau are the children’s greatest supporters.

“We love it,” said Robert. “Any sport or activity the kids can get into, we’re right in there travelling all over the country.

We enjoy spending time with them and totally encourage them to give everything a go.”

Tainui Sports Ltd Grant Recipients Above: Tuhoto-Ariki Pene (8) Right middle: Tuhoto with his sister Kayla (13) and brother Ihakara (11).

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Dedicated and supportive mum Karen says things are pretty full-on and every weekend is taken up. Aside from BMX racing, they’re involved in waka ama, trampolining, rugby, basketball, hockey, down hill mountain biking and just recently, the boys started boxing.

BMX Whaanau-fanatics She estimates there are around 35 BMX bikes in their shed, “give or take a few” and says the kids caught the bug for sport by sheer coincidence.

“My sister got involved and invited us to take them along. Ihakara and Kayla were very young at the time and we didn’t have the flashest of bikes for them, but they demonstrated a natural flair and ability for the sport.

Ihakara totally demolished his competition even though it was the first time he’d ever raced.”

Robert says it was also the whaanau focus and friendly nature of others that enticed them to stick with the sport.

“We found everyone to be so helpful. They’d often help repair things or lend equipment simply because we were new to the sport and we really appreciated the help. This was the perfect environment for our family to be a part of.”

The three kids are very competitive admit the parents and train together to retain their competitive edge.

More recently, Kayla spent three weeks living and training with World and NZ BMX Champion Sarah Walker – an experience Kayla explains was “amazing”.

“I got to see first hand what it takes to be an elite sports person. We did everything together – cycled, went to the gym, ate only specific foods. It was wicked! I definitely look up to her and want to be just as good and even better when I get older.”

Injuries are a common occurrence with many sports and Karen says they have seen a few. The most unfortunate was a facial injury including a broken nose and

cheekbones, which Ihakara sustained after taking a fall.

“I only had my half helmet on cause it was so hot that day and I fell off. My face got smashed,” he laughs gesturing to Tuhoto to bring his phone so he can show photos. “I looked ugly as!”

Having ranked in the country’s top eight for the past four years, all three Pene kids have set their own personal goals and want to raise the bar. Their determination and passion for the sport says Karen is unrelenting and she is amazed at their drive to succeed.

“There are a few kids dropping out of the sport especially those around Kayla and Ihakara’s age. I think they’ve been pushed so hard that they lose that edge to stay in the competitive mind frame, so end up giving up. That isn’t the case for our kids but whatever their future may be, we will support them 110% no matter what.”

As trials and competitions continue throughout the year, they’re now focussing on building to next year’s World Championships in South Africa.

Tuhoto pipes up.

“At this year’s competitions we got to swap t-shirts with people from other countries like France, Great Britain and Japan. I can’t wait to get to next year’s cause I want to be a world champ and then everyone will want my t-shirt!”

His brother and sister both agree. “Yip, all of us as world champions would be cool – that’s what we want.” •

TE HOOKIOI - HEPETEMA/SEPTEMBER 2009

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The 2010 Tainui Waka Kapa Haka Festival has been confirmed for Sunday 14th February 2010 at the Mystery Creek Events Centre.

The festival is being staged by the Tainui Waka Cultural Trust; a community based charitable trust that represents Maaori Performing Artists from throughout Tainui Waka.

A key aim of the trust is to promote participation and excellence in Maaori Performing Arts and Culture throughout the Tainui Waka region.

Senior Kapa Haka roopu interested in competing at the 2010 Tainui Waka Kapa Haka Festival, are invited to register their interest with the trust’s Secretary Kahurangi Muru, by 30th September 2009.

Telephone: (07) 824 7694 or 021 078 4935 Email: twcthaka@gmail.com.

For further information please visit www.tainuihaka.org.nz •

20 TE HOOKIOI - HEPETEMA/SEPTEMBER 2009

KORONEIHANA SPORTS RESULTS TOUCH Champion section Winner: Mangatangi Runner up: Waiwhakaata 1 Whaanau section Tupaea Whanau Winner: Runner up: Waiwhakaata 2 Social section Winner: Ngaati Awahou Runner up: Waiwhakaata 3 Tamariki section Winner: Waiwhakaata NETBALL B Grade Winner: Papaz Angels Runner up: Te Rau Aroha A Grade Winner: TRANC Taharoa Runner up: Ngaati Mahanga

Premier Grade Winner: Arataki Runner up: Tu Te Manawa Maurea Mens Grade Winner: Te Nehenehenui Runner up: Ngaati Awahou RUGBY LEAGUE 16s: Waikato 24 Wellington 28 18s: Waikato 16 Wellington 54 Premiers: Waikato 32 Wellington 22 Elimination tournament Winner: Te Puuaha o Waikato Runner up: K2K Invitational Tonga Mahuta Shield Tamaki Makaurau 16 Waikato Maaori 32 RUGBY Tainui Waka Rugby Challenge – Hiranga Trophy Challenger Match Winner: BOP Maaori by default Hiranga Trophy Match Winner: Counties Maaori Runner up: Tainui Waka Rugby Junior Shield Winner: Tokomauri Runner up: Raungaiti B Koroneihana Shield Winner: Raungaiti A Runner up: Te Puuaha o Waikato

TE HOOKIOI - HEPETEMA/SEPTEMBER 2009

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Waikato-Tainui Marae Insurance Package The Waikato-Tainui Marae Insurance Package was launched last year and Tribal Development Officer Eric Pene is encouraging Marae to sign up. He says one of the major benefits is the opportunity to have “one-to-one advice from trained experts”.

“We are encouraging all of our Marae to invest in a package as a means of security and to avoid unforeseen financial expenses which may occur in the long-term,” says Eric.

To date 12 Marae have signed up and six are in discussions with the broker, Crombie Lockwood.

“Packages can be tailored to meet the needs of each Marae where there are special circumstances and Marae will have access to professional advice and expertise. It’s also an opportunity for Marae, large and small, to support each other through group leverage.”

The insurance package offered covers: Marae Assets These include Marae Buildings, Plant (motors, pumps and generators), Contents (furniture, bedding, floor coverings), Fixtures and Fittings (shelving, cupboards and kitchen fittings), Carvings, Artworks, Archives and Library.

The cover is designed to protect Marae Assets against accidental, sudden and unforeseen damage (other than a small number of excluded events).

Open Coverage Open coverage limits have been introduced to protect all assets up to pre-determined maximum levels. These bands are set to cover the widest possible range of needs: • Up to $1m • Up to $5m

• Up to $2.5m • Over $5m tailored solution

Carvings These have often been a contentious issue for insurers who have normally avoided the responsibility by excluding them all together. We have developed a realistic and practical approach to replacement which will be based on the following formula and included within the open coverage:

Did you know...

Claim Payment/Replacement = reasonable carving time x carver’s hourly rate.

As it is impossible to replace the sentimental, cultural and historical value of carvings, we should not attempt to deal with this by insurance means.

Marae Income and Operation Interruption Following a loss to assets, Marae can be exposed to one or both of the following: •

•

Marae will need to incur additional expenses to keep operating for example temporary buildings or equipment hire and/or; Marae will experience a loss of revenue by not being able to utilise or hire its premises.

Using the same ‘open coverage’ philosophy as the asset policy we have included Automatic Interruption Protection for a minimum level of $100,000.

Marae Liability During day-to-day operations, there is potential to cause damage to other peoples property or cause bodily injury. This liability risk is covered by the insurance policy. Cover levels start at $1 million and include legal expenses.

Marae Government Act Protection There are over 400 Acts of Government which can impact on the daily duties of Marae. Any breach of these acts can incur costs in terms of fines, legal fees and potential reparation expenses. This policy is designed to protect against ‘accidental’ breaches of these acts (except for a small number of excluded acts).

For more information please contact the Tribal Development Unit on 0800 TAINUI or email ericp@tainui.co.nz •

As at 1 September 2009, there are 55,355 tribal members registered with Waikato-Tainui. 51% are female. The majority of those registered are aged between 12 and 40yrs.

Approx. 1,600 tribal members live in Australia with small pockets of whaanau living in USA, United Kingdom, Cook Islands, Fiji, Canada, Rarotonga and Scotland.

22 TE HOOKIOI - HEPETEMA/SEPTEMBER 2009

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Te Kauhanganui Hui

2010 TAINUI FESTIVAL - COMING SOON....

Friday 19 February - Sunday 21 February 2010

Hopuhopu Sports and Tribal Complex, Ngaaruawaahia

Are you of Waikato-Tainui descent, and have a pepi 0 to 6 months of age or are you expecting a baby in 2009?

If the answer is “yes” then enrol your pepi on the tribal register for automatic entry into our Pepi Pack Competition.

Prizes include: •

1 of 4 Pepi Packs (drawn monthly) featuring a specially designed Tainui Teenie Tee as well as health and wellbeing resources personally chosen to welcome your pepi into your whaanau, hapuu, and iwi.

• All entries will go into a final prize draw in December 2009 for a Digital Camera, a $100 Unichem voucher and a $100 Baby Factory voucher.

For more information call Grants Officer Jackie Haggie on 0800 Tainui or email: pepi_pack@tainui.co.nz or visit our website http://tainui.co.nz/forms/ pepi_packs.htm The contents of Te Hookioi may not be reproduced in any form either part or whole without the permission of the publisher. Neither Waikato-Tainui Te Kauhanganui Inc (including agents and subsidary groups) nor individual writers accept any responsibility or liability for anything done or not done by any person in reliance, whether wholly or partially, on any of the contents of this publication. Note: Opinions expressed may not necessarily reflect the policy or views of Waikato-Tainui Te Kauhanganui Inc (including agents and subsidary groups).

TE HOOKIOI - HEPETEMA/SEPTEMBER 2009

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HOME

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ONLINE>SURVEY

ARE YOU • of Waikato-Tainui descent?

• aged 18 - 24 yrs in Sept/Oct 2009?

Shortly, Waikato-Tainui will be running an online survey with cool prizes up for grabs!

SO ENTER YOUR DETAILS NOW at www. waikatotainuisurvey.com and you’ll be one of the first to be reminded when the survey goes online!

Your email

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SUBMIT

The Ko Wai Taatou? project is all about finding creative ways to help promote the positive development of Waikato-Tainui, and to optimise the well-being of our people and their whaanau.

Phase I - is an online survey aimed at WaikatoTainui rangatahi who are aged 18 - 24 yrs in September/October 2009, living in Aotearoa or overseas. The survey will be online at www. waikatotainuisurvey.com shortly, and will run for approx. four weeks.

Phase II - is a phone survey of registered Waikato-Tainui tribal members aged 18yrs+ and residing in Aotearoa. Participants will be randomly selected to answer a short phone survey early in 2010.

Information collected is confidential to Waikato-Tainui Te Kauhanganui Incorporated and will only be used for the purposes of supporting tribal development, and distributing prizes. Individual responses will not be reported. We respect your privacy. No information will be shared with third parties.

Contact: TRIBAL DEVELOPMENT UNIT Freephone: 0800 TAINUI xtn 7603