Video Series

Go beyond the surface and uncover the stories of Te Āhuru Mōwai. In this video series, local knowledge holders explore the cultural meaning and symbolism woven through the space's artwork, architecture and design, offering a deeper understanding of what makes it unique.


The Story Behind Te Āhuru Mōwai's Glass Designs | Waki Graham

Have you ever wondered about the designs on the glass meeting rooms at Te Āhuru Mōwai?

In this video, Waki Graham shares the meaning behind the Takarangi design featured on the Tui Mayo Room glass. The intertwining spirals represent life's journey, Te Ao Mārama and the connection between Ranginui and Papatūānuku.

Te Āhuru Mōwai, home to Manawatū Community Hub Libraries services, carries cultural narratives gifted through partnership with Ngāti Kauwhata.


The Story of Te Āhuru Mōwai's Pou Whakairo | Te Whakaotinga Kereama

The pou whakairo at Te Āhuru Mōwai tells the story of creation, whakapapa and the pursuit of knowledge.

Join Te Whakaotinga Kereama as he explains the symbolism woven throughout this taonga, from Ranginui and Papatūānuku to Tāne Mahuta's journey to bring knowledge into the world.

Manawatū Community Hub Libraries provides services at Te Āhuru Mōwai, where cultural narratives gifted by Ngāti Kauwhata are represented throughout the building.


Ihirangaranga: The Vibrational Waves of Te Āhuru Mōwai | Kiri Gerretzen

Along Stafford Street, the exterior of Te Āhuru Mōwai features Ihirangaranga, vibrational waves that symbolise the sharing of knowledge, learning and connection beyond the building's walls.

Kiri Gerretzen explains how this design embodies the impact of the people who pass through Te Āhuru Mōwai and carry what they learn back into the community.


Matariki at Te Āhuru Mōwai | Kiri Gerretzen

Look up and you will find Matariki watching over Te Āhuru Mōwai.

In this video, Kiri Gerretzen shares the meaning behind the seven stars featured on the outside of the building, representing renewal, connection, remembrance and new beginnings. The design welcomes visitors while reflecting values that bring whānau and communities together.

Manawatū Community Hub Libraries provides services at Te Āhuru Mōwai, a space enriched by cultural narratives gifted by Ngāti Kauwhata.


The Whāriki Beneath Your Feet | Kiri Gerretzen

The story of Te Āhuru Mōwai begins the moment you walk through the door.

Kiri Gerretzen explains the meaning behind the Whāriki carpet design, inspired by Te Whare Pora, the house of weaving, and Hine-te-iwaiwa. The design weaves together learning, storytelling, connection and the flow of knowledge, while acknowledging the Mangakino Stream and Ōroua River.


Te Āhuru Mōwai's Pou Whakairo | Kiri Gerretzen

Learning is a journey, and the pou whakairo at Te Āhuru Mōwai reflects that pathway.

Kiri Gerretzen shares the story behind the 12 ascending steps within the design, representing the progression of learning and Tāne's journey through the heavens to retrieve the three baskets of knowledge.

These cultural narratives help shape Te Āhuru Mōwai, where Manawatū Community Hub Libraries provides services for the community.


Te Taiao: Connecting People and Nature | Kiri Gerretzen

The mezzanine balustrade at Te Āhuru Mōwai represents Te Taiao, the natural world that surrounds and sustains us.

In this video, Kiri Gerretzen explains how the design reflects the interconnectedness of people, plants, animals, waterways and the environment, reminding us of our place within the wider world.

Te Āhuru Mōwai's cultural narratives, gifted by Ngāti Kauwhata, are woven throughout the building.