Issue 74

Ngā Hau e Whā
From the Editor

“Cultural connection” or “connectedness” are terms used with increasing frequency, but what do they really mean? The reality is that cultural connectedness means something different for everyone, and most largely relates to one’s life experiences. In a Ngāi Tahu context, does being culturally connected mean living in the takiwā and being actively involved in the local activities of the iwi, or can one have a meaningful connection living in the North Island or further afield? With more than 50 per cent of the iwi living outside of the takiwā, this is an interesting consideration.

From the CEO

So whose responsibility is it to build engagement? Members themselves? Or should Te Rūnanga widen its net? It’s a debate that has been around for a while, as we have our ahi kaa who are religious volunteers protecting and practicing the kaitiakitanga responsibilities of tikanga on the marae, while at the other end of the spectrum we have our whānau who live away, and over the generations some have become further disconnected. The overwhelming feedback from our road shows is that whānau are motivated to be involved, and they are hungry for more information.

Whenua

Te Hakapupu Te Hakapupu (Pleasant River) rises in the hilly forested country before flowing in a generally eastward direction entering the Otago coastline between Matakaea (Shag Point) and the Waikouaiti River. The prevalent estuary situated at the river mouth has historically been a rich source of mahinga kai with extensive Māori archaeological sites situated nearby.

Toi Iho

Ngāi Tahu artist Nathan Pohio (Waitaha, Ngāti Māmoe, Ngāi Tahu – Ngāi Tūāhuriri) is currently exhibiting his work, Raise the anchor unfurl the sails, set course to the centre of an ever setting sun! at one of the most prestigious art events in the world, documenta; both in Kassel, Germany, its traditional home, and in Athens.

Ngā Hau e Whā From the Editor

From the CEO

Whenua

Toi Iho

Ngā Hau e Whā
From the Editor