Mā mua ka kite a muri, mā muri ka ora a mua.
Those who lead give sight to those who follow, those who follow give life to those who lead.
Mana Wāhine Collective Te Tai Tokerau is a transformational kaupapa bringing together wāhine Māori leaders who are passionate about creating positive change throughout their takiwai.
This powerful, intergenerational rōpū with its effective and uniquely wāhine Māori approach to capability building was honoured as a finalist in the E Tū Whānau Ann Dysart Kahukura Awards held at Ōrongomai Marae, Upper Hutt on 1 July 2026.
Mana Wāhine Collective – Growing leaders together
The Mana Wāhine Collective Te Tai Tokerau began as a pilot assessing community mobilisation using Te Whakaoreore Aromatawai Hāpai ki te Hapori – The Community Mobilisation Assessment Tool. It quickly evolved into a powerful and trusted network of wāhine leaders committed to learning, sharing knowledge and uplifting one another.
The wāhine involved are already respected kahukura leaders within their own communities, with deep connections across whānau, marae, hapū, iwi, taiao initiatives and community organisations. The collective gives them opportunities to learn from one another, strengthen their leadership and amplify their impact.
Inspired by the kuaka as a symbol of endurance, shared responsibility and unity, they continue to build the capability of wāhine Māori to lead on issues and opportunities that matter most to their whānau, hapū, iwi and communities. These are issues fundamental to te ao Māori – the whenua, kaumātua, māmā, tamariki and rangatahi.
“By prioritising relationships, cultural identity and long-term capability building, this powerful intergenerational kaupapa Māori network is creating lasting positive change for future generations across Te Tai Tokerau.”
Shirleyanne Brown, E Tū Whānau kaimahi
Strengthening wāhine leadership across Te Tai Tokerau
Whakawhanaungatanga, ako, and tuakana-teina relationships practised at their regular wānanga and hui allow them time and space to reflect and strengthen their leadership journeys together. Generations share and learn from each other’s experiences, perspectives and energy.
Members of their collective are already leading with aroha and humility. They’re bridging gaps between communities, government agencies and organisations, while championing strengths-based and locally led solutions that support whānau and hapori to thrive.
The commitment that Mana Wāhine Collective Te Tai Tokerau has shown to collective wellbeing and Indigenous leadership systems demonstrates foresight, courage, integrity, and a deep dedication to uplifting others.
With these wāhine toa, the future of Te Tai Tokerau is in good hands.
