Huaki
“To bring to Light”
Edition 17
Collaboration at Waitangi
Amplifies Taitamariki Voices
Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS Commission, and ĀKAU Foundatio and their whānau to share their Taitamariki near Waitangi Marae discussions, express their aspirati
The Ngāpuhi podcast caravan was on site, capturing taitamariki perspectives to ensure their voices continue to shape conversations about their future and wellbeing As part of the kaupapa, 11-yearold Te Ohomairangi Smith gained hands-on experience as a mokopuna podcast interviewer by conducting interviews alongside Pio at Waitangi, helping to ensure that taitamariki voices were captured and shared
The taitamariki tent featured panel discussions, a ‘chill zone,’ and interactive activities designed to create a welcoming space where young people felt valued and empowered Visitors also had the chance to kōrero with Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services Chief Executive Dr Moana Eruera and Chief Children’s Commissioner Dr Claire Achmad Dr Achmad emphasised, “Waitangi Day is a time to listen to the perspectives of young people Their voices will continue to inform our independent advocacy for mokopuna across the country ”
Taitamariki voiced both aspirations and frustrations One speaker called for strong role models, stating, “Expose us to good role models, show us the best way to do things, then over time Te Iwi Māori will be thriving ” Another urged adults to remove barriers: “Adults need to remove the glass ceiling to ensure our taitamariki can ascend to wherever they wish to go!”
A strong call for the return of tribal lands emerged from all taitamariki panelists, with the youngest stating, “Just give our land back, and we will share ” Taitamariki also spoke of the strength derived from their connection to whakapapa, acknowledging how important it was to know their history and identity “We wish all Māori children to have the privilege of knowing who they are just like we do It gives us strength, and we know we are part of thi bi ”
rātou When they do, they grow in confidence and feel the strength of generations standing behind them That’s what we want for all our mokopuna ”
ĀKAU Foundation’s Temepara Hita highlighted the intent to empower young voices: “Our youth are the leaders of tomorrow We want them to feel heard and encouraged to share their aspirations Their voices are crucial to h i h f d i responsibility to
commitment The future is in the hands of taitamariki, and it is the responsibility of all to clear the path ahead
The voices of taitamariki at Waitangi were not just words they were a call to action With panelists expressing frustration at a lack of action: “Dont listen just to respond, but to actually hear us, take on board what we have been saying, and follow through with real action We need to see the promises being kept, not just words spoken for show ” Protecting and uplifting mokopuna is a shared responsibility Adults, leaders, and communities must listen act and create meaningful change for the future
NISS, with over 30 years of experience, remains committed to strengthening Ngāpuhi whānau, hapū, and communities Mana Mokopuna advocates for all children and young people in Aotearoa, while ĀKAU Foundation fosters creativity and innovation, supporting taitamariki in Te Tai Tokerau to shape brighter futures through design and storytelling
the Child) are everyones rights, b Aotearoa, Te Tiriti o Waitangi give Māori tamariki an extra layer of s and protection that I don’t see be activated We have to activate th have to activate it differently, we to acknowledge the indigenous s and positioning of tamariki Māor Aotearoa ” Te Tiriti o Waitangi is just a historical document; it is a agreement that requires ongoin
Ngāti Hine FM take Te Matatini to global audience with Haka Translate
te kūkupa news
Ngāti Hine FM has once again spearheaded the innovative Haka Translate service at Te Matatini o te Kāhui Maunga in Taranaki, offering live translations of kapa haka performances in six languages, including English, Mandarin, and Pasifika dialects. The service, which is available via the Te Matatini app, will also debut audio descriptions for blind and low-vision audiences.
Haka Translate aims to make the rich cultural expressions of kapa haka accessible to a global audience, bridging language barriers and fostering inclusivity By streaming translations through the Te Matatini app, viewers worldwide can experience Māori performing arts in their preferred language
The Te Matatini translation service was launched in 2007 under the name Hakarongo Mai, offering only English
translations initially In 2019, the service underwent a rebrand and expanded its offerings by introducing Mandarin translations, delivered by dual MandarinTe Reo speaker, Lidu Gong By 2023, the service had further grown to include four additional languages: Tongan, Fijian, Cook Islands, and Samoan, in partnership with the Pacific Media Network
The introduction of audio description marks a significant step toward accessibility,
TAONGA O TE AO
ensuring that the blind and low-vision can fully engage with the performances
Ngāti Hine FM station manager and Haka Translate producer, Erana Fenton, says this reflects Te Matatini’s commitment to celebrating te ao Māori while embracing diversity and inclusion to inspire and connect audiences across the globe, ensuring that the wairua of kapa haka reaches every corner of the world
The Haka Translate team for 2025 include Wi-Pere Mita & Erana Fenton (Executive Producers), Dr Te Rita Papesch, David Jones and Maria Huata (English Translations), Nemai Tagicakibau (Fijian), Jeannie Pera (Cook Islands), Soane Foliaki (Tongan), To’oto’o Leaupepe (Samoan), Toti West & Haimona Te Nahu (Operations), George Burt (Lead Technician), Tracey Patrick (Lead Programming), Amber Smith, Zay’yen Benson-Brown, Tobias Kaipo and Cassidy Makiha (Production)
Photo:NgātiHineFMareleadingtheHakaTranslateserviceatTeMatatini,picturedherewiththeEnglish tranlsationteam,fromleft:MariaHuata,AmberSmith,Dr -TeRitaPapesch,DavidJones,EranaFenton, TraceyPatrick,GeorgeBurtandZay’yenBenson-Brown Photo:NgātiHineFM
Aotearoa celebrates Seaweek from Saturday 1 March to Sunday 9 March, with kaupapa moana events happening across the motu to discover the ways our lives are connected to the sea –Toi Moana, Toi Tangata.
As part of Seaweek, coastal communities across Whangārei district are working with Northland Regional Council, Whangārei District Council, and local organisations to hold Coastal Conversations events.
Coastlines are constantly changing, and communities who live there need to know what coastal change means for them and how to adapt and thrive
Coastal Conversations events bring communities together to discuss coastal issues and provide information on coastal erosion and sea-level rise, working with nature to protect coastlines and beaches, what councils are doing about coastal erosion, and where to go for advice if you’re concerned or have questions about coastal issues.
There will be a mixture of formal presentations and a chance to mingle, chat, and check out displays from local groups, schools, regional and district
councils, and organisations such as Civil Defence, CoastCare, Coastal Restoration Trust and Seaweek.
One of New Zealand’s leading coastal scientists, Jim Dahm, will be there to talk about nature-based coastal solutions and coastal restoration.
It’s a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, connect with others in your community, and hear from experts in coastal processes and hazards.
Four Coastal Conversations events are planned:
• Ruakākā Recreation Centre – Monday 3 March, 5:30pm to 7pm
• Waipū Celtic Barn – Tuesday 4 March, 5:30pm to 7pm
• Whananaki Beach Hall – Thursday 6 March, 5:30pm to 7pm
• Ngunguru Sports and Recreation Club – Friday 7 March, 5:30pm to 7pm
Come along and join the kōrero!
For more info, check out ‘What’s On’ at seaweek.org.nz or visit the All Events page on nrc.govt.nz or wdc.govt.nz/ Events/Whats-On
Kōrero Tuku Iho Whakatauira Fund Open
KMR’s Kōrero Tuku Iho project is seeking Expressions of Interest from Kaipara Uri, iwi, hapū, marae and whānau to undertake whakatauira (case studies) within the Kaipara Moana catchment.
Whakatauira support KMR’s primary goal of reducing sediment into the Kaipara Moana to protect and restore the mauri of the Moana
Each whakatauira will gather stories, memories, histories and values to generate a deeper understanding of Kaipara Uri, iwi, hapū, marae, whānau and community narratives about the natural world and places of significance, and serve as inspiration for sedimentation reduction
What are Whakatauira projects?
Whakatauira will be led by Kaipara Uri, iwi, hapū, marae, whānau ‘on the ground’, with oversight from a Kōrero Tuku Iho Reference Rōpū comprised of members with tātai to Kaipara Moana, understanding of te ao mārama and tangata whenua practices, and knowledge of local narratives including local histories, tātai and landscapes
How many Whakatauira are sought?
Two Whakatauira are sought through this Expression of Interest process Each must centre on Kōrero Tuku Iho relationships that demonstrate a specific method(s) that capture the distinctive contribution of whānau, hapū, iwi, community
In particular, the Kōrero Tuku Iho project is seeking Whakatauira that:
The Whenua Whānui Fund offers:
• Emphasise Kōrero Tuku Iho to inform vision for a particular place
• Support activities to reconnect community members to the Kaipara Moana and specific places – e g through wānanga
• Demonstrate ways to support reduction of sediment into the Kaipara Moana through local narratives that provide context for specific projects such as native replanting, species restoration and regeneration, wetlands protection and water quality improvements
• Reconnect people (tāngata) to place (whenua, moana) and nurture human health and wellbeing
All Expressions of Interest are due by 1 April 2025 For more information, please email environs@uriohau co nz
About Kaipara Moana Remediation KMR aims to protect and restore the mauri of Kaipara Moana While our focus is on reducing sediment, the projects KMR invests in – to restore wetlands, fence off rivers and streams, plant trees and regenerate forest on erosion-prone land – also bring wider benefits These include helping valued species to thrive, reducing climate change risks and increasing resilience to storms and other extreme weather
KMR supports groups to protect and restore the Kaipara Moana
Kaipara Moana Remediation’s Whenua Whānui Fund supports groups to participate in projects that protect the Kaipara Moana
Our projects support people, places, and nature KMR invests in projects to restore wetlands, fence off rivers and streams, plant trees and regenerate forest on erosion-prone land
Our projects:
• Help valued species to thrive
• Restore mahinga kai
• Diversify on-farm income
• Help meet environmental standards
• Increase resilience to storms and extreme weather
The Whenua Whānui Fund is open to all groups including iwi/hapū, marae, landcare groups, catchment groups, kaitiaki, schools and trusts administering land with multple ownership.
• A Site Visit - a KMR Field Advisor walks the whenua with you to understand your aspirations and sediment reduction options and priorities
• Project Funding – KMR can fund up to 70% of the estimated project works including fencing, site preparation, planting and plant release costs.
• A Sediment Reduction Plan – your Field Advisor prepares a Plan to unlock KMR funding Once a contract is signed, the mahi can begin and a first instalment invoiced and paid
• Community engagement and project management – KMR can assist with some of the costs of running your project
Advice & Support – your Field Advisor can assist you through the project to help the mahi stay on track.
If you are thinking about planting near waterways or on erodible hillsides this winter, get in touch with KMR as soon as possible.
Collaborative Effort Brings Social Supe
Acollective effort is bringing a muchneeded social supermarket to Kaikohe, with Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS) working alongside key partners to support whānau facing economic hardship In response to rising living costs, this initiative made possible through collaboration between NISS, mahinga kai experts, and project coordinators aims to provide relief through access to affordable kai, fresh produce, and wider community support
The idea for this kaupapa was sparked by the NISS Community Connector, who identified the need to strengthen the existing support network in Kaikohe and improve access to affordable kai for
whānau experiencing food insecurity
To meet this need, NISS proposed the establishment of a social supermarket alongside the development of a mahinga kai for the supply of fresh produce.
Completion of the mahinga kai development, led by mahinga kai specialist Paula Hohua alongside Fred Hohua, was celebrated on 19 December 2024
Their expertise has been instrumental in ensuring the Mahuru Mahinga Kai is not only producing fresh food for whānau but also serving as an educational space where taitamariki involved in NISS remand services and programmes can gain handson experience in kai sustainability The mahinga also features rongoā plantings for healing and treatment, reinforcing its holistic approach to wellbeing
The logistics and project coordination for the social supermarket have been carefully managed by Marlene Richardt of Kaupapa Collective Ltd, ensuring the premises, lease, and licensing processes run smoothly
Mangawhai
Drop
Meanwhile, Shirleyanne Brown from WotMatters Ltd has played a key role in engaging with community and key local services ensuring the foundation of the Social Supermarket and other support offered is built on what matters to whāna and has the support of local services including key food networks in designing a sustainable operating model to keep th kaupapa thriving in the long term
Renovations are well underway at the Social Supermarket site, located at 25 Raihara Street, with the grand opening scheduled for 30 April 2025 NISS, responsible for budget coordination, project monitoring, programme oversight, and whānau engagement, continues to ensure the initiative remains focused on delivering practical support to those who need it most Donna Hulmes will oversee the supermarket’s day-to-day operations, including supplier relationships, staffing, and ongoing management
The mahinga and supermarket are part of a framework that will include:
Whānau space – a safe and inviting area where whānau can rest, enjoy a cuppa, and engage in kōrero
• Mahinga kai – a hub for sharing and distributing locally grown produce
• Kāuta – a learning space for sharing mātauranga about kai preparation and encouraging a love for healthy food
• Pātaka – a social supermarket providing essential staples to support whānau experiencing financial hardship
This initiative stands as a Tupuna led, whānau driven kāupapa weaving together the threads of cultural pride, collective action, and practical support. As the work continues, it represents a powerful example of Ngāpuhi’s dedication to creating opportunities for whānau to thrive, strengthened by the collaborative efforts of those working behind the scenes to make it a reality
THE KUTAI GUY: A Local Business Making Waves
A Northland seafood business is making waves, delivering world-class kutai (mussels) to Kiwi tables.
For the Reichardt family, mussels aren’t just a business—they’re a way of life. The Kutai Guy is more than an award-winning brand; it’s a celebration of family, tradition and the joy of sharing great kai. With a focus on quality and accessibility, The Kutai Guy ensures that great food is never out of reach.
Journey
The Kutai Guys story began with Reichardt Marine, established in 2013 by Zarn and his father, Sean The business became known for delivering the finest mussel spat from Te-Oneroa-A-Tōhe (90 Mile Beach) to mussel farmers across New Zealand In 2022, Zarn expanded beyond spat supply and created The Kutai Guy an end-to-end operation supplying high-quality mussels directly to consumers
In just three years, The Kutai Guy has become an award-winning favourite for smoked and fresh mussels Customers can buy online, instore, or for Northlanders, through the Meet the Truck tradition picking up fresh kutai from Zarn himself
“Family traditions are about gathering together and remembering where we come from. Sharing kutai isn’t just food it’s about connection and celebrating our roots.”
Crafting Great Kai
What makes The Kutai Guys mussels stand out? Its the care in every step Their smoked mussels are hand-shelled and smoked using time-honoured methods, resulting in a rich, authentic smoky flavour.
Behind every batch is a dedicated team Zarn’s wife Michelle, his father Sean, and operations manager ‘Kutai Kelly’ all working with a shared passion for crafting premium seafood Their work culture is built on whānau, connection and celebrating good kai together
Award-winningKutai
Keeping It Real: Bringing People Together
The Kutai Guy has also built a thriving online community, with 3 8 million video views in 90 days and 25,000+ Facebook followers Zarn’s unfiltered, behind-the-scenes content showcases the reality of running a business in the Far North. From fireside mussel feasts to the rollercoaster of working with nature, his storytelling has struck a chord with people nationwide
“Every time I share a recipe online, I’m inviting our kutai whānau to join me at the table, no matter where they are. It’s aboutkeepingitreal connecting over a meal and showing that every shared moment brings us closer together ”
LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE
PAENUKU Year 1-6 (Preference for tamariki previously in reo enivronment)
PAETATA Year 7-8
PAETAWHITI Year 9-10
PAERANGI Year 11-13
Bus services to/from Kawakawa for both kura sites in Whangārei for whanau wishing to send their tamariki from further north
A Bright Future for Kutai Lovers
TheKutaiTruck
Zarn&MichelleReichardt
From Ocean to Table: The Kutai
