Te Hookioi Issue 46

Kotahitanga!

Whanaungatanga!

Tainuitanga!

It’s all on for the 2014 Waikato-Tainui Games

Graduation marks historical Milestone

Waikato-Tainui College for Reserach and Development’s first cohort of students graduate

Keeping the Home fires burning

Maintaining the connection with whaanau in Australia

issue 46 | 2013 | HE PAANUITANGA WAIKATO-TAINUI | ISSN 1173-7530

Ko te iinoi kia tau tonu te manaakitanga o te runga rawa ki te Kiingi me te iwi nui tonu.

It was a severe blow to lose our moorehu ruruhi Pani Flavell, at 103 years old in October. To all our loved ones – moe mai i te moenga roa, haere atu raa, moe mai raa.

In the true spirit of Whakatupuranga 2050, the rangatahi of Waikato-Tainui took the opportunity to reconnect and provide some inspirational initiatives and pathways forward. In that spirit Tainui Teacher’s played host to the National Ngaa Manu Koorero speech contest where our speakers spoke exceptionally well with Tainui taking top honours in the Raawhiti Ihaka section.

Our kaumaatua have been busy as well discussing and representing our tribal tikanga at poukai, at Kaahui Kaumaatua and other forums across the tribe.

Our tribal roadshows provided another place to ask questions and offer suggestions to our tribal teams who came together to present their roles and responsibilities to our tribal

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membership. Watch this space as more information workshops are coming to a place near you.

With Te Hookioi and Radio Tainui, our communications have added Facebook and the tribal website in an effort to share more koorero with our whaanau all over the world.

‘One Team, One Direction’ is the latest catch cry bringing together the Lands Trust, River Trust, the College and Tainui Group Holdings to contribute their skills and expertise to breathe life into Whakatupuranga 2050.

E te iwi, ki te kotahi te kaakaho, ka whati.

Ki te kaapuia, e kore e whati.

If a reed stands alone it is vulnerable, but if many are bound together they are unbreakable.

Paimaarire Rahui Papa Chairman, Te Arataura

FEATURES 4 It’s all on for the Waikato-Tainui Games

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The dates for the sixth Waikato-Tainui Games have been set! The upcoming tribal games will be held over three weekends in early 2014 with the main games event on 1-2 February in Hopuhopu.

9 Graduation marks historical milestone

In November the Waikato-Tainui College of Research and Development celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of students.

13 Keeping the home fires burning

Most of us have whaanau who have made the arduous decision

to pack up and move to Australia, and many have tamariki that are raising their mokopuna there. So it comes as no surprise that the Australian-born Maaori population has doubled over the last decade.

TRIBAL NEWS 8 Committed to keeping our tamariki safe 8 Supporting our tamariki in early childhood education 11 Mining minerals & petroleum - a hot topic 12 Waipa District Council makes four 15 Chief Executive takes part in leadership bootcamp

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17 Staff get behind good cause 17 Ngaa poukai moo te tau 2014 19 Highlights from 2013 TE REO TAIOHI O WAIKATO-TAINUI

1 Rangatahi voice their views

3 Taking the world by storm 5 Pursuing her passion 6 Jumping to success

13 FRONT COVER Merehira Savage, MBA graduate.

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Photo: 2012 Waikato-Tainui Games

The dates for the sixth Waikato-Tainui Games have been set! The upcoming tribal games will be held over three weekends in early 2014 with the main games event on 1-2 February in Hopuhopu.

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“We want to encourage our whaanau to live healthy lifestyles and promote health and wellbeing activities so they’re able to contribute to the enhancement of themselves and their marae”

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eld every two years, the Waikato-Tainui Games is a key fixture on the tribal events calendar. The event attracts more than 20,000 tribal members who are all keen to represent their marae in the social head-to-head competition.

Games Coordinator, Manihera Forbes (Ngaati Hikairo and Tainui Awhiro) says, “Although there will be an element of competitiveness as marae teams vie for trophies and the coveted top prize, the Games is about all our whaanau getting together and having fun. All the events and activities we have planned cater to tribal members of all ages.”

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The upcoming games will feature the usual sports and activities as well as a range of activities for tamariki under 12 years. “We will have a dedicated Tamariki Taakaro Zone which will have a Peepi Tummy Time Tent; interactive activities for 3-5 year olds; a range of rides; and, the ultimate inflatable obstacle challenge of tunnels, a rock climb, pop ups and slides. There will also be a performance by Sharky’s Dance Crew – three members of which have won gold at the world hip hop championships.”

Manihera says the health and wellbeing of our people is also a key area of focus for the tribe so the Games will continue to be a smoke free, drug free and alcohol free event. “We want to encourage our whaanau to live healthy lifestyles and promote health and wellbeing activities so they’re able to contribute to the enhancement of themselves and their marae.

“The Expo Tent will be designed to raise awareness amongst our whaanau about the tribe’s Whaanau Ora service providers,” he says. “And for the first time we will have the Whaanau Hauora Awards which will recognise the positive efforts made by our whaanau towards getting healthy.” Face-to-face health checks with nurses will also be offered on both days at Hopuhopu.

During the Games weekend at Hopuhopu, Manihera says, “We will be introducing a kapa haka element which requires each marae to nominate a representative to perform well-known Waikato waiata on the main stage alongside their fellow competitors.

Marae can get behind their performer by also participating in front of the stage. This activity is to encourage our whaanau to learn Waikato waiata and in turn enhance their tribal knowledge.

“The 2014 Games will be an event not to be missed and I encourage all our tribal members to get behind their marae and participate. It’s a time for us as an iwi to come together and celebrate tribal unity, tribal pride and tribal identity – kotahitanga, whanaungatanga, Tainuitanga.”

Copies of waiata along with a full list of all sports and activities have been sent out to all marae as part of their registration packs.

To participate in the 2014 Waikato-Tainui Games, tribal members are encouraged to register via their marae.

Follow us on our Facebook page, facebook.com/Waikato.Te.Iwi to keep up to date with Games information and activity or check out waikatotainuigames.com.

CAR PARKING

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MARAE COMMUNITY AREA

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MAIN ENTRANCE

TOUCH

ADMIN

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FIRST AID

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restricted entrance

out of bounds area

ENDOWED COLLEGE

OLD TAUPIRI RD

IMPORTANT note 18 January 2013 - Manu Bay, Raglan Surfing 25 January 2013 - Turangawaewae Marae and Paterson Park, Ngaaruawaahia Indoor Bowls Ki-o-Rahi Tennis Waka Ama 1-2 February 2013 Hopuhopu Sports and Tribal Complex, Hopuhopu Basketball Chess Hiikoi Kapa Haka Netball Power Pulling Table Tennis Tamariki Taakaro Zone Touch Rugby Volleyball

While all efforts have been made to provide a safe and positive experience for tamariki participating in the Tamariki Taakaro Zone, parents and caregivers are responsible for their tamariki and are asked to actively supervise their tamariki aged up to 12 years at all times.

For protection from the effects of the sun, tamariki are also required to wear a hat at all times while in the Tamariki Taakaro Zone.

check out waikatotainuigames.com

Applications for Kaumaatua Grants are open to registered tribal members aged 60 years and over

or email Jackieh@tainui.co.nz for more information te hookioi

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COMMITTED TO KEEPING OUR TAMARIKI

SAFE

Waikato-Tainui has joined forces with Child, Youth and Family for a simple objective – tiaki tamariki.

In October, Waikato-Tainui signed a Memorandum of Understanding with CYF to formalise a partnership that sees both organisations working together to ensure our tamariki stay connected to their whaanau, hapuu and iwi. This connection is vital in reducing the number of tamariki in CYF care.

Rahui Papa, Chairman of Te Arataura, says “This partnership recognises the on-going commitment of Waikato-Tainui to be informed about who our most vulnerable tamariki are and how the iwi can contribute to their safety and wellbeing.

“We will be working alongside Child, Youth and Family and whaanau to ensure the best possible care and protection is achieved for our tamariki.”

Child, Youth and Family deputy chief executive Bernadine Mackenzie says, “Alone our organisation does not have all the answers but if we combine our resources, our supports, and our experiences in caring for our most vulnerable children with those of iwi then it can only mean a better, brighter future for tamariki.

She says, “Waikato-Tainui already does so much for its whaanau and tamariki,

and this event will take the relationship between our organisations to the next level.”

Since September 2012, Maria Henry, Iwi Liaison Development Officer for CYF, has been on secondment to Waikato-Tainui.

Her role has been critical in linking our tamariki to their whaanau, hapuu and iwi and further building the capability and understanding within the iwi on CYF processes related to tamariki who are in or at risk of entering care.

Waikato-Tainui will be working alongside CYF to develop a plan that will be based on finding local solutions for local tamariki.

Photo: Te Arataura Chairman, Rahui Papa, and Minister for Social Development, Paula Bennett.

Ensuring our tamariki get a strong and supportive start in education is at the heart of an initiative delivered by Waikato-Tainui, with support from the Ministry of Education and Te Puni Kookiri.

Poukai Peepi is an initiative that promotes the value of early learning and encourages our parents to give their tamariki a strong start in learning and development through quality early childhood education.

“Since the pilot was launched, tamariki have been enjoying early learning activities based on our identity, language and culture; and whaanau have been getting information about early learning they might otherwise never have had.”

Launched in October at the Waahi Pa poukai, the promotion programme for Poukai Peepi will be a part of all remaining 2013 poukai so whaanau have the opportunity to learn more about the importance of early learning. Chief Executive Parekawhia McLean says, “We aim to reach more than 200 people at each hui; parents, whaanau, tamariki and kaumaatua.

Ministry of Education Deputy Secretary for Early Years, Parents and Whaanau, Rawiri Brell says this way of working is an excellent example of government agencies and iwi working together in innovative ways to reach a common goal.

An evaluation will also run alongside the programme to ensure it is reaching families and helping them to understand that early learning can benefit their children in a variety of ways.

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In November, Merehira Savage (pictured) graduated with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Waikato-Tainui College for Research and Development. She was among the first cohort of students to graduate, marking an historical milestone for the College.

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“I knew I wanted to be a part of the first cohort and that I would have the opportunity to study alongside passionate and business minded whaanau who were striving for the same purpose”

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erehira, of Waikato-Maniapoto, Te Arawa, Kahungunu, Whakatoohea, Tuuhoe and Ngaati Toarangatira descent, first considered doing a master’s degree in 2006, but it wasn’t until she was informed about the College’s MBA programme some five years later did she make the final decision to do it.

“When I was told that the College had partnered with the University of Waikato to deliver its MBA it was at that point I knew I should do it,” says Merehira. “I knew I wanted to be a part of the first cohort and that I would have the opportunity to study alongside passionate and business minded whaanau who were striving for the same purpose.”

Delivered in a waananga environment, the College’s MBA programme is unique as it fosters Maaori values and indigenous ways of doing business.

“My research looked into how traditional Maaori values have been applied in today’s business world.”

Merehira says, “Organisations include traditional Maaori values, practices and beliefs within their operation of business so I wanted to investigate how these organisations incorporate these values, and how they demonstrate these practices and beliefs.”

Through examining three businesses identifying traditional Maaori values as

core features, Merehira was surprised to find that traditional values and business or corporate values often complemented each other and, at times, were one in the same nature.

“I found on a whole, Aotearoa places great pride in the importance of values such as manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga and these two traditional Maaori values have provided guidance to many industry sectors.”

The mother of three says her MBA journey has taken her more than two years to complete. “During that time I worked full-time and I had other commitments needing my attention so I expected some sacrifices to be made, but how I see it, they were small sacrifices for a long-term gain.”

Merehira is now keen to further her studies by taking on a doctorate degree.

“I have ideas where I know I can enhance my masters kaupapa by looking into either the international indigenous sector or at how traditional Maaori values can improve the governance and leadership of whaanau, hapuu, iwi or even a rohe.”

The Waikato-Tainui College for Research and Development’s first cohort of graduates include, Awhimai Reynolds Brad Totorewa Bryce Turner

Carla Te Anga

Chris McKenzie Endine Dixon-Harris Glenn McKay Jean Nankivell Jonathan Kilgour Neville King

Ngaroma Grant Potaka Maipi

Rachel Wetere Raewyn Mahara Shane Solomon Tere Gilbert Titia Graham

Yvonne Hawke-O’Brien The graduates received their tohu in a special graduation ceremony held at the College. Graduation proceedings were opened by Waikato Endowed College Trust Chairperson John Heremia and Chancellor of the University of Waikato the Rt Hon Jim Bolger, with leading Maaori academic Professor Sir Mason Durie as the guest speaker.

Meanwhile, the College’s graduation success continued as eight students graduated in December with their Taahuhu Maatauranga Maaori (Master of Maatauranga Maaori degree). Offered jointly with Te Waananga o Raukawa, the Taahuhu Maatauranga Maaori is delivered solely in Te Reo Maaori and aims to encourage robust research while enhancing tribal knowledge.

For information on tohu delivered by the College, visit waikatotainui.ac.nz

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The hui, attended by around 20 tribal members from Whaingaroa, Kaawhia, Tahaaroa and Huntly, was open to all Waikato-Tainui tribal members. The purpose of the hui was to inform our hapuu, marae and whaanau about the processes that are involved in assessing and granting permits for mining minerals and petroleum across the motu and within Waikato.

The mining of minerals and the exploration of petroleum is a contentious topic so in October, the Waikato Raupatu River Trust held an information sharing hui to ensure our tribal members are well informed about the sector.

River Trust Strategy Manager Julian Williams says, “This hui was about getting our people prepared for any potential mining discussions and giving them the opportunity to be more proactive in this space.

“Being such a contentious topic, it’s crucial our people understand the entire process and to see how we can better be a part of the discussions taking place.”

Koorero during the hui covered the effects of mining; risk management and mitigation; clarifying the roles of both local and central government; and, identifying the best opportunities for iwi engagement/consultation with the various parties involved in the sector.

Participants were also given the opportunity to voice their concerns which were, • Benefits should go beyond employment in the mining

On 20 November 1863 British forces attacked our defensive line at Rangiriri which spread across the thin strip of land between the Waikato River and Lake Waikare.

The Battle of Rangiriri lasted two days and is considered New Zealand’s most bloodiest battle with 74 casualties - 36 Maaori and 38 colonial troops. Nearly 200 Maaori were also taken prisoner.

To mark 150 years since the Battle of Rangiriri a commemoration event attended by hundreds of poeple was held. Special pou were also unveiled.

Kia kore ai taatou e warewaretia.

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sector. When there is a loss of jobs, there is also a loss on the environment which is a double hit for our people

•

Consultation and engagement between iwi, hapuu, marae and any agencies involved is strongly needed and should be on-going

• One vision needs to be shared by all marae and hapuu that is founded on tikanga • Onus is on local and central government agencies to communicate their role and the benefits and risks associated with the sector • Legislation doesn’t go far enough in terms of protecting natural capital •

Clarification needs to be given around the non-notification process that Waikato Regional Council implements when assessing permit applications

• The depth being allowed to be mined, fracking effects and the destruction of ngahere and fisheries.

Julian says, “The next step is to find a way of getting our marae and hapuu working together, and drawing on each other’s strengths to participate more effectively within the mining sector. Any approach, must be a joint approach.”

Waikato-Tainui has signed a Joint Management Agreement with the Waipa District Council to further enhance efforts to protect and restore our tupuna awa, Waikato.

This latest agreement completes the four agreements that establishment of a joint committee between both parties were required with local authorities under the Waikato which ensures that we remain partners and that we focus River Settlement. Waikato-Tainui has previously signed our energies on supporting a vibrant community, sustainably joint agreements with Waikato Regional managing our resources and being Council, Waikato District Council and the “This agreement with the innovative in our thinking for the future.”

Hamilton City Council.

Waipa District Council The intent of all four agreements with “This agreement with the Waipa District local councils is to support our marae in Council formalises our already close formalises our already influencing and being a part of council working relationship and covers the way decisions, explains Julian. “It’s also close working relationship to support our traditional practice of we will work together to restore and enhance the health and well-being of our kaitiakitanga, which will enable us to and covers the way we protect, use, enhance and ensure access awa,” says River Trust Strategy Manager, Julian Williams. to our natural resources.”

“It allows Waikato-Tainui to have input into the resource consent process for the use of and activities on the surface of the Waikato River; an opportunity for iwi input into the preparation, review and changes of district council plans; and, provide for marae customary activities.”

will work together to restore and enhance the health and well-being of our awa”

Julian says, “The agreement further provides for the

Te Arataura Chairman, Rahui Papa, acknowledges the efforts made by the former Waipa District Council Mayor Alan Livingston and his team. “We have enjoyed the supportive relationship we have established with the Waipa District Council, and we look forward to implementing the provisions under the agreement in the coming months.”

TGH INCREASE STAKE IN HAMILTON RIVERVIEW HOTEL

Waikato-Tainui commercial arm Tainui Group Holdings has purchased another stake in Hamilton Riverview Hotel Ltd, increasing our equity in the company to 82.76%. Hamilton Riverview Hotel Ltd includes the Novotel Tainui and Ibis Tainui Hotel. This purchase represents another positive step in the evolution of TGHs investment portfolio.

MOU SIGNED WITH LANDCARE RESEARCH

Waikato-Tainui has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Landcare Research. The MOU encourages collaboration efforts with the intent of creating research, learning and leadership opportunities aimed at enhancing the natural environment in the Waikato rohe.

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Most of us have whaanau who have made the arduous decision to pack up and move to Australia, and many have tamariki that are raising their mokopuna there. So it comes as no surprise that the Australian-born Maaori population has doubled over the last decade.

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n Australia’s 2011 census, more than 128,000 people of Maaori ancestry were living in Australia and one in three, were actually born there. Only 1% are registered with Waikato-Tainui so it’s unknown exactly how many of our tribal members have made the move. So why are our people migrating across the ditch?

doing really well over there and the kids are excelling in the education and sporting opportunities Australia has to offer. “I guess my biggest fear is that they’ll never come home,” says Mike.

In 2011 the average income for New Zealand-born Maaori men in Australia was NZ$54,964 – $10,000 more than the average income for Maaori men To most it’s obvious. Mike Tahu (Ngaati working in New Zealand. But it’s Mahuta) says the lure of higher wages “Sometimes you get the improved living and working – a life with better pay and a better chance of maintaining a comfortable mokemoke for them and you conditions that make the dollar stretch a lot further in Australia with many lifestyle, has led to the rapid increase want to tell them it’s time to appreciating automatic pay increases in migration. And according to a bunch and better remuneration packages. of recent studies, it’s likely to continue. come home” Opportunities for home ownership are Mike is the oldest of the eight brothers higher and earners can afford to indulge lifestyle choices. and sisters raised in the Tahu homestead in Ngaaruawaahia.

Mike says it’s a lot to compete with.

Four siblings now live with their families in Australia and “You have to be supportive because you know how much last year two of Mike’s daughters also made the move – one they’ve struggled trying to get ahead in New Zealand. Working relocated to Perth with her partner and their three tamariki, conditions here are tough, the cost of living and food is high and the other daughter moved to Sydney where last month and it’s hard for many to get work that make ends meet. So she gave birth to Mike’s 18th grandchild. you just have to keep the home fires burning for when they do “It’s really heart breaking when your whaanau leave to live decide to come home.” in Australia, especially when you’re so used to being around Last month, the Tahu whaanau had a family reunion in each other and raising your tamariki together. Sometimes honour of Mike’s late parents Sen and Jack Tahu. He says you get mokemoke for them and you want to tell them it’s whakawhanaungatanga was the most important component – time to come home. But you can’t because you know they’re

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being together and remembering where you are from.

“We had a programme of waananga and sports in Ngaaruawaahia, but the first couple of days began at our marae at Taniwha. We have nieces and nephews who now have their own families, new partners and tamariki. We started at Taniwha Marae and Taupiri Maunga so they know that they belong to these places – these places are home.

“I guess my

and waiata, Te Reo me oona tikanga. They network with other Maaori and come together for celebrations, lay down hangi, and koorero about things happening here at home.”

So what about the stories that come across the Tasman about our people being treated like second class Australian citizens with unfair citizenship policies and low to no welfare provisions? It seems to be all good and biggest fear fine while they are working, but what about those that only have qualifications they’ll never come for work in vulnerable sectors and end up losing their jobs and can’t find another?

Mike says it’s also vital that all the is that mokopuna actually meet each other kanohi-ki-te-kanohi and reunions are an home” opportunity for that to happen. He says Mike says that the pros still seem to far two of his siblings were maauiui and still made the journey. outweigh the cons “especially if you have whaanau who can They were also fortunate to share the occasion with half support you until you find your feet. brothers and sisters and extended whaanau.

“I’m hearing that the jobs are there but if you don’t have the “The older ones need to continue to make sure that the right ‘certificates’ and somewhere you can stay until you get younger ones know where they are from and what it means to them, you could get yourself into trouble. be whaanau, what it means to be Maaori.

“I feel for those who go over to Australia expecting it to be “My brothers and sisters, we have always been close and our all milk and honey and end up with no work and nothing to children are like brothers and sisters. This is the best taaonga fall back on. Whaanau support is really important no matter we can teach our kids – the importance of whaanau and being where you go in the world. Our whaanau in Australia continue one, and also the importance of being Maaori. to be there for each other and receive all of our kids until they find their feet and learn how things work.

“It heartens me that even though they live in Aussie, my whaanau continue with our traditions – teach their kids haka “But like I keep saying, you can always come home...I’ll keep the fires burning.”

Photo: Ngaa uri o Sen raaua ko Jack Tahu. More than half of the Tahu whaanau live in Australia.

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In late August, Waikato-Tainui Chief Executive Parekawhia McLean took part in an intensive week-long leadership bootcamp held at Stanford University in California, USA. She was joined by 36 other Maaori business leaders from around the motu, including tribal members Michelle Hippolite, Hinerangi Raumati, Roger Pikia, Colleen Neville, Riria Te Kanawa, Tracey Haupapa and Dr Riri Ellis.

Parekawhia says, “The bootcamp was underpinned by a tongi of Kiingi Taawhiao – Ki te kahore he whakakitenga ka ngaro te iwi; Without foresight or vision, the people will be lost – and aimed to lift the international commercial skills of current and future Maaori business leaders and encourage collaboration between our organisations and agencies.

“The Maaori economy is a major sector in Aotearoa as it’s worth around $40

billion and demonstrates how we as a collective contribute significantly to our nation’s growth,” she says. “This bootcamp was an opportunity for the heads of various organisations and agencies to come together to explore new ways of thinking in business and strategy.”

The bootcamp was conducted by senior staff from the prestigious Stanford Business School. “We were exposed to the most current world-class business perspectives and were given the opportunity to apply these perspectives to practical situations relevant to our own organisation.

“We were also fortunate enough to meet with leaders from Google and

OPPORTUNITY TO BUY CROWN PROPERTY RIVER TRUST NEW WEBSITE

The Waikato Raupatu River Trust recently made live their new website. The website contains a copy of Tai Tumu Tai Pari Tai Ao – our environmental plan, and information on other projects.

Check out the website at wrrt.co.nz.

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Waikato-Tainui receives Right of First Refusal (RFR) on crown property as part of the 1995 Waikato Raupatu Settlement. These properties are commonly houses from Housing New Zealand. If you would like to be on the email list for notifications of houses that become available, please email Manihera Forbes on maniheraf@tainui.co.nz with ‘RFR’ in the subject line.

PayPal, and also with bio-tech venture capitalists; neurological scientists; along with experts from China, negotiation specialists, and many others.”

Parekawhia says, “While the bootcamp was a great opportunity to consider issues away from home, the real value is in how we take such an experience and apply it here as we have the potential to become global market leaders.

“Our potential is to turn our great stories into great products, single entities into integrated businesses and our growers into global marketers.”

Photo: Leadership bootcamp participants at Google HQ.

WAIKATO-TAINUI CHRISTMAS CLOSURES

The Waikato Raupatu Lands Trust, Waikato Raupatu River Trust and the Waikato-Tainui College for Research and Development will be closed for the Christmas holiday period from Thursday 19 December and will reopen on Monday 6 January 2014.

ko wai taatou Korotangi is considered one of our most cherished taonga as it accompanied the Tainui Waka on its journey from Hawaiki to Aotearoa.

E ai ki ngaa koorero o nehe, as the descendants of Tainui Waka spread out across the rohe and into Waikato, Korotangi made its home in Kaawhia with a ruruhi named Parewhaita.

Over the years Parewhaita spoilt the bird and eventually her children came to resent Korotangi. Full of jealousy, the children would pick on the bird whenever their mother was not looking until one day Korotangi had had enough and it climbed up into a pohutukawa tree above Te Arataura spring.

Forlorn, Korotangi cast itself from the top branch into the spring and when it hit the waters, Korotangi turned into stone and sank to the bottom.

Aotearoa Fisheries Chapman Tripp Genesis Energy Kahui Legal McCaw Lewis Mighty River Power Winstone Aggregates

Staff from across the Waikato-Tainui organisation participated in the Les Mills Charity Bootcamp held throughout August. Their participation was part of efforts to raise money for the True Colours Charity, a Waikato-based charity that supports children and young people living with chronic, serious or life threatening illnesses and their whaanau.

Waikato-Tainui also got behind Buddy Day held on 15 November. Buddy Day is a nationwide initiative which aims to raise awareness about the role every adult and whaanau play in preventing child abuse. Find out more at buddyday.org.nz

Together with some of our key stakeholders, Waikato-Tainui staff raised nearly $12,000 for the charity.

A big thank you goes to everyone who supported our staff in their fundraising efforts, in particular:

Haanuere 01 Horahora 19 Kokohiinau Peepuere 08 Taniwha 15 Hukanui 22 Maurea Maehe 01 Poutuu 09 Paaraawera 10 Hoturoa

Maehe 11 Raakaunui 12 Waipapa 13 Maketuu 14 Ookapu 18 Turangawaewae 29 Marokopa 30 Tokanga-nui-a-noho Apereira 05 Huria 10 Te Papa o Rotu 19 Ngaa Tai e Rua

Apereira 25 Tainuiaawhiro Mei 23 Ngaati Pikiao Hune 15 Poohara Akuhata 31 Whaataapaka

Oketopa 08 Waahi Paa 12 Mangatangi Noema 01 Pikituu 24 Te Awamaarahi Tiihema 06 Waikare 14 Reretewhioi

Hepetema 14 Tauranganui

OTHER EVENTS

WAKA AMA NATIONALS 13-18 January 2014

TAINUI WAKA KAPA HAKA REGIONALS

8 March 2014

TURANGAWAEWAE MARAE REGATTA

22 March 2014

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Photos: 1-4, Waikato-Tainui Rangatahi Summit; 5, Launch of Tai Timu, Tai Pari, Tai Ao; 6, Ngaati Haua Deed of Settlement signing; 7-8, Te Tira Hoe; 9-10, TriMaori Festival; 11, Maurea Island restoration; 12, MBA Graduation; 13, Te Matatini; 14, Te Puea Exhibition; 15, King’s mask sculpture unveiled.

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taking the world by storm

Hobby becomes international phenomenon

rangatahi voice their views

Recommendations from the Waikato-Tainui Rangatahi Summit

jumping to success Taking on the sport of trampoline

In October, rangatahi from near and far gathered at Turangawaewae Marae for the biennial Waikato-Tainui Rangatahi Summit. The summit was an opportunity for our rangatahi to engage, learn and share their knowledge and experiences with tribal leaders.

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s part of the summit, rangatahi were asked to identify ways in which Waikato-Tainui could improve the wellbeing of rangatahi and ensure they are a part of the discussion and implementation of tribal initiatives.

Rangatahi gave the following key ideas and recommendations: • Form a Runanga Rangatahi – a youth driven, council-type roopu that will strengthen rangatahi input in tribal decision making, participation in cleaning up the Waikato River, and speaking of Waikato reo • Hold annual rangatahi tribal events – regular tribal and marae activities held throughout the year to strengthen the connection of rangatahi who have a relationship with their marae, hapuu and iwi, while also helping to reconnect the disconnected • Provide a rangatahi space at poukai – an opportunity for rangatahi to voice their whakaaro on tribal matters during important tribal gatherings • Establish a youth facility – a place to build and nurture the dreams and passions of rangatahi as well as a place for rangatahi to form new and sustain on-going relationships with peers and pakeke • Foster Waikato reo – encourage the speaking of Waikato reo in all kura, from primary through to secondary school • Enhance the wellbeing of tribal members – improve the provision of social services and residential care for Waikato-Tainui rangatahi and their whaanau.

The Waikato-Tainui Rangatahi Summit was attended by more than 100 rangatahi who represented marae from throughout the iwi. During the summit, a strong hive of activity was generated via our Facebook page in anticipation of keeping our rangatahi connected and seeing the recommendations being played out in the near future.

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taking the world by storm When Taaniko Nordstrom along with sister-in-law Vienna Shwenke started Soldiers Rd Portraits less than a year ago, they never imagined their hobby for taking photos with a cultural twist would become their business let alone an international phenomenon.

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he duo’s native inspired vintage portraits have taken Aotearoa and Australia by storm since their first showing at the Kaawhia Kai Festival in February this year. “We had no idea what the reaction would be from the public, but we thought our vintage style photography idea was worth trying out,” says Taaniko, of Ngaati Maahanga descent.

A gamble which definitely paid off as the pair have been in demand ever since with audiences around the world showing huge interest in their photos.

“Within three months of us starting Soldiers Rd we travelled to Australia.

It was a little daunting at first having to fund our own trip so soon after starting the business, but it was worth it,” says Taaniko. So far, they’ve been to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and the Gold Coast.

And they’ve also had requests to travel to San Francisco, London, New York, Salt Lake City, Hawaii and France – just to name a few. “We’re planning to go overseas in the near future and maybe take an exhibit around the world. We enjoy having a business that promotes and celebrates our culture.”

Taaniko says ta moko designs play an integral part of the portraits they take

and admits she had some reservations with incorporating it. “Some people’s interpretation of art is different to your own and we understand that ta moko is really sacred as it tells our peoples stories and holds their genealogy.

“We only use ta moko designs at the

request of the whaanau, so it is their choice. But I think most people can see our true intention and realise that in no way are we purposely disrespecting our culture with our use of ta moko.

She says, “The portraits we take are a beautiful and positive portrayal of people, specifically Maaori, and we’ve seen, heard and felt people’s reactions.

They feel a sense of pride in themselves and in some ways, they feel closer to their tupuna.”

grateful for every day. “Our hobby for photography would still be a hobby if it wasn’t for the wonderful people who have taken the time to sit for a portrait with us.

“Not only that, but the people we’ve met, and the experiences we’ve had have been unbelievable. Complete strangers have opened their arms and homes to us so we’re truly grateful to everyone who has contributed to our journey so far.”

Taaniko says their formula for success is simple, “Whakawhanaungatanga – we make a connection with every whaanau we meet and realising that through our portraits we have touched their lives for the better is humbling. It’s also reassuring to know what we’re doing is of value to others. ” Her advice for budding entrepreneurs, Taaniko says, “It’s never too late to think up a cool idea! So when you do, don’t be afraid to run with it and be your own boss. Being able to determine my own destiny has been a dream come true.”

Follow Taaniko and her journey with Soldiers Rd Portraits at soldiersrd.co.nz or ‘Like’ them on Facebook.

For Taaniko, the Soldiers Rd experience so far has been positive and one she is

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Ensuring our environment and its resources are sustained for future generations is the motivation behind Hinerangi Mahara’s career choice.

Hinerangi, of Ngaati Te Wehi, is on her way to pursuing a career in environmental science and resource management.

“For as long as I can remember I have always been interested in the environment,” says the 17 year old. “But it wasn’t until high school did I realise I had a passion for it.”

As part of her studies for her final year at Nga Taiatea Wharekura, Hinerangi had to establish an internship with an organisation she might want to work for. “I approached the Waikato Raupatu River Trust as I wanted to observe and experience the work I could be doing in my future career.

“During my 14 weeks with the River Trust I was able to see the diverse projects our tribe is involved in, like freshwater management and the restoration of Taupiri Maunga.” She says her experience has reaffirmed her career choice and she’s also determined to one day work for the tribe.

“Being Waikato-Tainui to me means ensuring the visions of our tupuna are fulfilled,” says Hinerangi. “As society is progressing forwards, it is our responsibility to ensure our resources and the environment are cared for and sustained for our tamariki and mokopuna.”

Next year, Hinerangi will be attending the University of Waikato to begin a degree specialising in environmental planning.

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Trampoline isn’t one of those typical sports, but its popularity among our rangatahi is gaining momentum. Jaxon Waters is no exception to the craze, having caught the trampoline bug back in 2012 and since then, has never looked back.

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axon was immediately drawn to the mixture of disciplines involved in trampoline, from gymnastics and strength to acrobatics and rhythm. “Trampoline isn’t just about jumping around. It takes a lot of hard work and you have to focus on conditioning and understanding set routines,” says the 12 year old.

A former under 12s rugby league player for Turangawaewae, Jaxon has decided to make trampoline his priority sport with the aim of representing Aotearoa in the Olympics one day. “I used to play league as well as do swimming, snowboarding and kapa haka, but I’ve given them all up so I can focus on school and trampoline.”

His enthusiasm and dedication has seen Jaxon quickly jump up the ranks in New Zealand’s trampoline circuit. He has four championships under his belt already and at the recent national competition he placed fourth for individuals and first for synchronised in the 13-14 year age group.

“Competing at nationals was scary, but really fun and exciting at the same time,” says Jaxon, of Ngaati Mahuta and Ngaati Maahanga descent. “All the support I got from my whaanau, friends, the locals and my coach helped a lot and the other

competitors were good sports too. They were supporting everyone no matter where they were from, it was awesome.”

Jaxon now has his sights set on being selected for the 2014 sub junior team, which is the youngest team in New Zealand’s international squad. Selection won’t start until next year, but to ensure Jaxon is eligible for the team he has to achieve minimum entry scores.

“I’ll be training as much as I can, when I can, and making sure I eat right because my coach always says if you eat rubbish, you perform rubbish.”

So to all those rangatahi keen to give trampoline a go, Jaxon says, “If you want to, then go hard whaanau! Trampoline is an awesome sport to be involved in whether you’re competing or not. The skills you learn in trampoline can be crossed over to heaps of other sports like freestyle BMX, skiing, skateboarding, wakeboarding and even running.”

But for Jaxon, the best thing about trampoline, “When I’m flipping I feel free to do whatever I want and it feels like I’m flying.”

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