Having both kaumātua and mokopuna present grounded the hui in mātauranga, whakapapa and future aspirations a living expression of “Titiro ki te taumata o te moana kei reira te oranga” – Te Ruki Kawiti, reminding us that wellbeing is found when we look to the horizon together.
The day showcased a wide range of kaupapa led by whānau, hapū and community across the rohe, including freshwater monitoring and restoration in the Taumarere catchment, hapū‑led pest management, wetland restoration, and the Ngāti Hine Forestry Trust’s vision for a sustainable indigenous forestry future.
Ngāti Hine also spoke to broader collective mahi, whenua Māori land use, forestry pathways, local business opportunities and creating employment pathways for whānau to work for the benefit of whenua, whānau and community.
Recent flooding across the valley highlighted the vital role Motatau Marae plays as a hub for the wider community, particularly in times of need. Members also discussed how marae, hapū, councils and emergency management agencies can work together to strengthen preparedness and resilience, alongside reflections on the evolving local government reform landscape and what it may mean for iwi and hapū across Taitokerau.
For Te Ruarangi, the hui was an opportunity to give voice to the collective aspirations of Ngāti Hine, to propel our shared mahi forward, held first in our whakapapa connections.
Te Ruarangi Co-Chair and Te Raki Māori Constituency Councillor Arama Morunga said coming together in places such as Motatau was an important part of strengthening relationships and creating better outcomes for future generations.
"When we take the time to come together, listen to one another and share what's happening in our respective communities, we all do better together.
“Hui like this help us build understanding, strengthen our relationships and identify where we can work alongside each other to advance the aspirations of our people and the wellbeing of Taitokerau.
“On behalf of Te Ruarangi I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Ngāti Hine, Motatau Marae, the presenters, and all those who contributed their time, knowledge and manaakitanga to make the hui a success.”
Te Ruarangi members and haukāinga gathered in front of Motatau Marae.
