Ngaehe Te Wanikau opened the hui
An inspiring day of kōrero and workshops was held in Taupo on 15 August 2014. This hui followed on from the E Tū Whānau Charter of Commitment launch, hosted by Ngāti Tūwharetoa the night before at Hirangi marae.
The hui brought together over 100 practitioners, and others, involved with supporting whānau to live healthy, positive, violence-free lives. Most had attended the Charter launch the night before and so much of the kōrero focused on what the Charter meant to people and how individuals and groups could help to translate the words into action. The day included a mix of presentations, workshops and discussion.
Tūwharetoa spokesperson Ngaehe Te Wanikau opened the hui, reflecting on the importance of the E Tū Whānau kaupapa and the work that practitioners do every day on behalf of whānau. The day’s proceedings were then guided by MC Pahia Turia, chairman of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Apa, who injected his own blend of wisdom and humour.
Kōkiri marae showcases work
In the morning, participants heard from some of those who had received kahukura leadership awards at the Charter launch. Kōkiri marae, Seaview, discussed the work that they do with whānau at the coalface to support them to achieve their dreams and live positive healthy lives.
Kōkiri marae’s moving DVD on parenting
The presentation concluded with the screening of a Māori parenting resource they have made. The DVD is beautiful and moving, capturing the ways that parents and tamariki interact. It helps to show, in a non-judgemental way, some of those important little things that we adults sometimes overlook.
E Tū Whānau manager, Ann Dysart said that after years of dedicated service, Kōkiri marae were deserving recipients of their kahukura award.
“Kokiri have been working innovatively with whānau in Wellington for many years. They support people to confront the really difficult issues they face and to embrace positive Māori values to help create a different future.
“They weave Māori strengths like te reo, carving, whānaungatanga and whakapapa into all that they do.”
AWA Transmedia reaching rangatahi
Tareha O’Reilly, AWA Transmedia Studios
AWA Transmedia Studios injected some energy into the day’s programme with a lively audio visual presentation showcasing the work that they do. AWA received a kahukura award for their work with rangatahi, using social media to engage youth and spread the E Tū Whānau messages.
Tareha O’Reilly talked about the growth of AWA from an idea in his head to a fully-fledged studio, decorated with beautiful artistry provided by local Māori creatives. The graffiti art by ‘DLT’ and George Nuku’s carved polystyrene ceiling also provide the backdrop and set for AWA’s new web-series ‘THE REAL NZ’.
“We were lucky that the studio attracted a whole lot of interest and local talent – that really helped us to kick-start things and visualise a future. We’re using social media platforms to reach rangatahi with authentic messages they can relate to,” said Tareha.
Dame June Mariu honoured
A highlight of the day was the presentation of a kahukura award to Dame June Mariu, who had been unable to attend the launch at Hirangi because of travel disruptions.
Dame June has worked tirelessly in different roles over many years making an exceptional contribution to sport and Māori netball. The attendees were treated to a charming DVD presentation by Aotearoa Māori Netball Oranga Healthy Lifestyles (AMNOHL). It highlighted how AMNOHL incorporates wellbeing and E Tū Whānau values into the work they do with young netballers.
The afternoon was broken up into workshops. One encouraged participants to look more closely at the Charter of Commitment – what it means and how it can be brought to life. The last workshop of the day looked at protective factors for Māori – the things that whānau can do to keep their families safe and thriving.
A karakia from Ngaehe Te Wanikau closed the day, wishing everyone a safe journey as they travelled home armed with new knowledge, resources and inspiration.
