Celebrating Whanaungatanga

Dec 18, 2018

On 24 November the haukāinga at Ōnuku welcomed whānau from far and wide for a day of kōrero, kai and whanaungatanga. The day kicked off with Hui-ā-Tau, an opportunity for Ngāi Tahu iwi members to hear first-hand from Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu about the year’s achievements. This year had special significance as it was 20 years – almost to the day – since whānau gathered at Ōnuku Marae to hear the Crown Apology, delivered by then Prime Minister Jenny Shipley.

Following the formalities, festivities began, celebrating the 21st anniversary of the opening of Karaweko, the whare tipuna at Ōnuku Marae – sharing the many stories etched into its pou and the countless memories woven into its walls. The whānau celebrated with a rousing kapa haka performance, kōrero from those who were involved in the building and design of Karaweko, and – of course – an elaborate cake replica of the whare tipuna.

This photo series showcases the manaakitanga and whanaungatanga that exemplified the day as Ngāi Tahu whānau came together to celebrate the iwi.