Korongatā
Focusing on consolidating and strengthening Mana Whenua relationships with neighbouring stakeholders namely the HB Regional Prison.
Ongoing efforts to update the relationship agreement with them.
Holding multiple meetings with the prison, assisting at the opening of their new staff facility Pukeko, and supporting their implementation of the Hōkai Rangi Strategy by ensuring safe tikanga practises.
The Korongata Marae Emergency Response plan has proven to be effective and successful.
Developing whānau level emergency response plans using the template has enhanced preparedness by acquiring essential resources such as emergency packs and car kits.
Attention is required for the cultural impact report related to the golf course. Our goal is to establish a relationship agreement with the two golf courses in the area.
Ongoing issues with PGF renovations despite efforts to finish them. Whānau will complete the remaining work.
Strong support expressed to TMT and happy to provide support and assistance to help achieve mandate.
Waitangi
Commented about the significance of Marae involvement in the recent developments emphasising the importance collective advocacy by dedicated workers in the field and the need for their insights and expertise. Recommending remunerating individuals like Shade, Morry, Ngaio and TK for their time and engagement, further questioning the purpose and understanding of consultants engaging with Mana Whenua perspectives.
Attended the HTST information pop-ups.
Sent out communication to Marae regarding ongoing tono to HTST for Waitangi Marae representation, requesting advocacy.
Next Marae Hui this Saturday.
Attended the Te Rauhina knitting group and praised the nannies' dedication to preparing for the Matariki market on July 14th at Waitangi.
Extended an invitation to attend the market or purchase a store.
Matahiwi
Cape Kidnappers Wānanga was held May 27th and although unable to attend due to personal reasons, reported that the trip went well and participants enjoyed the experience, which aligned with the goal of fostering interest and engagement in taiao related matters.
The success of the Cape trip encouraged the exploration of similar initiatives with extended whānau to learn about other Marae/Hapu and promote respect for our whenua.
A recent presentation by the HBRC regarding another project identified similar concerns regarding the consultation process and the need for alternative solutions that prioritize sustainability and cultural preservation.
Supports the suggestion to establish a working group involving Shade, Morry, and Ngaio to address concerns and queries related to taiao. The group would provide a platform for open discussions and allow for effective collaboration.
Hui-a-Hapu is scheduled for the 24th of this month to review and adopt any changes to the Charter.
Plans are underway to organize a Te Matau a Maui presentation by Jacob Scott's team, showcasing the pūrakau, Maui's fishhook.
Ruahapia
The Ruahapia whānau had a positive experience during their trip to the cape, with many expressing a desire to do it again.
It was a significant moment for them as it was their first-time setting foot on their ancestral land.
The AGM is scheduled for Sunday, and preparations have been underway to gather discussions for presentation. Hangi is sold out.
Houngarea
The AGM date has not been set yet.
Whānau packs distribution continues on.
Working on panels for the Council, with eight members involved in this task.
Looking at solar power options and will seek assistance in assessing its feasibility.
Mangaroa
Whānau have been busy studying and working on a research paper that explores Te Reo Maori and Tikanga performance of the hapu.
A survey of Mangaroa Trustees to gather feedback and improve their performance has been posted to whānau.
The Trustees are currently working on a business strategy plan.
Continue to support the Bridge Pa food hub to distribute food items including bottled water, garlic, apples, assorted sauces, milk as well as packaged boxes from Civil Defence.
Acknowledgement to Morry (Mauri Protection Agency), Shade and Ngaio (NKII) for their kōrero and tautoko.
Waimarama
The Hui-a-hapū in May discussed the rebuild of Taupunga, including a feasibility study and challenges with council consents.
Funding has been secured for repairs to a demolished mural and the tennis courts.
Hosting the Psychological first aid course this Saturday (10th June) due to the impact of flooding and natural disasters.
Te Rauhina knitting group meets 10am every Wednesday, knitting booties or slippers for adults. Visitors are welcome.
Horiana Williams is the newly elected HTST representative
Hosting Te Hautapu ki Waimārama facilitated by Kauwaka, 5.30 am July 14th, national Matariki Holiday.
Kapa Haka team preparing for Regionals and welcoming anyone interested in joining.
Kahuranaki
Have formed a small Kapa Haka roopu, meeting weekly and reviving old songs from their sporting days as well as composing new songs.
The purpose of the roopu is to perform at the upcoming anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi at the Ngaruroro awa.
A detailed report will be provided at the next hui.
Ōmahu Mare
The Waahi Taonga Template Process - HDC
The community of Ōmahu faced significant challenges in the aftermath of cyclone Gabrielle due to extensive damage, and the subsequent exposure of wāhi tapu areas and Kōiwi from the Ōmahu urupā and Lake Oingo.
Recognizing the need to add a process into the waahi taonga template for a comprehensive approach to address these devastating events and their impact on sacred sites, the aim of Ōmahu was to provide a structured, culturally sensitive approach to dealing with the natural disaster aftermath, the preservation and protection of wāhi tapu areas, with collaboration between Hapū members, cultural experts, and local authorities to develop strategies and guidelines for managing or responding to these situations.
There is a need to establish a standardised process for future events of similar magnitude, ensuring that it aligns with cultural values, protocols, and community needs safeguarding sacred sites and human remains and protecting and preserving the community's cultural heritage during times of crisis.
Meka Whaitiri
Recently, Ōmahu marae hosted an Māori electoral campaign event for Meka Whaitiri which attracted around 250 whānau from different regions of Aotearoa. The event was held successfully at the Marae and despite going into Orange Alert on the night due to the cold rainy weather it proved to be a beautiful evening.
With the hope this brings positive changes for Māori within Parliament we extend our well wishes to Meka Whaitiri as she embarks on this new journey for the betterment of our people.
Matariki Awards
Ōmahu Marae also hosted a Matariki celebration weekend for the first time in over a few hundred years. The festivities commenced on Puketapu at 5.00 am with Whāngai i te hautapu traditional ceremony and karakia.
This was followed by a haangi breakfast, the reinterment of kōiwi and the unveiling of a kohatu at Lake Oingo, thus aiming to honour the ancestral remains and mark the importance of the area.
The hapū then gathered at Ōmahu urupā to reintern the kōiwi that had been washed out of damaged graves with more karakia and waiata honouring our ancestors.
The evening concluded with hapū Matariki awards, which aimed to celebrate the achievements of individual whānau members.
It was a special occasion that provided an opportunity for everyone to unwind and enjoy themselves, reflecting on the significant journey of each recipient through their ongoing manaaki and contribution.
Whānau still residing at Ōmahu Marae provided the manaaki for the event along with piringa hapū members who are actively assisting and supporting various events.
General Discussion
Highlighting of various upcoming activities for Rūnanganui working groups, the feedback received from the working groups is instrumental in the decision-making processes.
Ongoing projects, such as the BSRC Plan and socializing the results is to come.
Te Kaihautū Taiao and the Māori Community Development reports focused on appeal hearing dates, the Rūnanganui ToR, 3-year refresher cycle starting January 2024.
Water supplier funding available through Taumata Arowai. Coordination among Marae encouraged, TMT assistance and support as needed.
Mana Ake