Carving Wānanga Bringing Whānau Together

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Our carving wānanga series has brought together Ngāti Tumutumu uri of all ages to learn new skills, develop their carving techniques and spend time alongside one another at our Whare Wānanga, the Te Aroha Train Station.

Throughout the series, participants have been working alongside Michael, Darrin and Ben, who have generously shared their time, mātauranga and carving skills. The wānanga have provided opportunities for both beginners and those with some experience to develop their skills, learn from one another and work on their own taiaha.

One of the highlights has been seeing the range of ages taking part, with different generations of whānau learning and creating together.

With just one wānanga remaining in the series, it's been great to see the progress participants have made and the connections built along the way.

A big thank you to Michael, Darrin and Ben for their ongoing commitment to sharing their knowledge and supporting our whānau throughout the series.

Pā Harakeke

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Our pā harakeke is taking shape, with a range of harakeke varieties now planted as part of our ongoing mahi to support traditional weaving practices and the sharing of mātauranga.

The pā harakeke will provide a place where whānau can learn about different harakeke varieties, their characteristics and uses, and the tikanga associated with harvesting and caring for harakeke.

Different varieties of harakeke are suited to different purposes, from raranga (weaving) to the extraction of muka (fibre) used in traditional kākahu. Having a range of varieties growing together will provide opportunities for learning, comparison and hands-on experience.

As the plants become established, the pā harakeke will continue to develop into a valuable resource for future wānanga and learning opportunities.

The pā harakeke will help preserve and pass on traditional knowledge, strengthen connections between whānau and the whenua, and support the continuation of weaving skills and practices for future generations.

We look forward to sharing more as our pā harakeke grows.

Creating Pathways for our Rangatahi

A recent kauri protection video project has opened up an exciting opportunity for one of our Ngāti Tumutumu rangatahi to gain work experience in the digital media industry.

With support from Tiakina Kauri, our rangatahi worked alongside creative marketing agency Original Geek to develop social media videos promoting the protection of our kauri.

Following the project, one of our rangatahi was offered the opportunity to undertake further project-based work experience with Original Geek, gaining valuable hands-on experience in digital media and an insight into a potential future career pathway.

We're also pleased to share that she has since transitioned back into full-time schooling.

Creating opportunities like this is an important part of our Alternative Education programme. Alongside supporting rangatahi with their education, we want to help them discover their interests, build confidence, develop practical skills and explore different pathways for their future.

It's great to see positive outcomes coming from this kaupapa, and we thank Tiakina Kauri and Original Geek for their support in creating these opportunities for our rangatahi.