Haremai! Kauwhata Marae Experience
The call of the karanga (ceremonial call) echoed across Kauwhata Marae on Saturday 13 September as Ngā Kaitiaki o Ngāti Kauwhata extended a heartfelt welcome to manuhiri (visitors) for a special Marae Cultural Experience. The pōwhiri (formal welcome) brought people together from Sri Lanka, England, Australia, China, and Aotearoa to share in whaikōrero (speeches), waiata (songs), and the hongi (pressing of noses). For many, it was their very first time stepping onto a marae and they described it as emotional and feeling a genuine connection. One attendee said simply: “It felt like coming home.”
The kai (food) and kaputī (tea) provided proved the perfect ice breaker, giving everyone a chance to relax, and share conversations. The mix of ages, from tamariki (children) through to new citizens of Aotearoa, created a warm atmosphere of sharing and belonging. Those who couldn’t attend this experience, have already asked to join the next one.
“It was nice to give people this opportunity for a positive relationship with local iwi (tribe) of the district. The Mana Whenua (people of the land) were very welcoming and hospitable.” Says Lydia Smith, MCHL Programmes Assistant.
The event was part of Welcoming Week and carried extra significance as it coincided with the 50th anniversary of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week). Born from activism in the 1970s, what began as a call to protect and revive te reo Māori has become a nationwide celebration. Today, te reo is a thriving language, spoken in homes, schools, workplaces, and in our community.
Ngā Kaitiaki o Ngāti Kauwhata, together with Manawatū Community Hub Libraries, were proud to host a day filled with smiles, song, and shared stories. A reminder of the strength of culture and of the people who call Aotearoa home.
The group assembled for a photo before the official welcome onto Kawhata Marae.
Visit photo taken inside Kauwhata Marae during the Welcome Week experience, featuring attendees with Ngā Kaitiaki o Ngāti Kauwhata iwi.