Issue 98

By the time you are reading this issue of TE KARAKA, Matariki will have come and gone. The intentions for the year ahead will be coming to life for many, while others take the time to emerge gently into the future.

Against the challenge of all things Te Tiriti being stripped from the very fabric of our society – increasingly by the day – it is reassuring to see the amazing mahi being done around the takiwā that holds firm to mana motuhake and authentic Te Tiriti partnership. This is timely as the iwi begins
the next phase in its post-Settlement journey guided by Mō Kā Uri – Kāi Tahu 2050.

In this issue we feature several examples: the first, Whakaora Te Waikēkēwai, an environmental restoration project along the south-western edge of Te Waihora which has been led by Taumutu Rūnanga. The initiative is a powerful example of what mana whenua led, voluntary co-governance can achieve.

And at the southern end of the takiwā, Te Pōhā Mātauraka o Murihiku, an education initiative in partnership with Awarua, Waihōpai and Ōraka Aparima rūnaka, has seen local mātauraka and pūrākau being taught in many schools throughout Southland with amazing outcomes for both
tauira and kaiako.

As Mō Kā Uri moves from vision to action, the Moeraki whānau are embodying the tenets of the three tuturu – rebuilding the community from the ground up, asserting their influence to ensure outcomes that uphold their mana motuhake and creating opportunities for whānau connection with
place and culture.

Three previously unsung kaitiaki: Gail Thompson and Russel and Teresa Trow, were honoured in the New Years Honours for their lifelong commitment to environmental advocacy in the Murihiku rohe. Their tireless efforts over decades has led to the restoration of many native flora and fauna. Their accolades are so deserved.

And finally, congratulations to our kaimahi and assistant editor of TE KARAKA Sascha Wall and husband Keiran on the safe arrival of their pepi ātaahua – Te Ahikaea. While Sascha is off enjoying her time as a new māmā, it is great to welcome back Anna Brankin to our editorial team.

Nā Adrienne Anderson-Waaka, Sascha Wall me Anna Brankin