Our Culture

1. Identity and Connection:
   Cultural heritage anchors Māori families in their identity, affirming who they are and where they come from. It links individuals to their genealogy (whakapapa), their tribal groups (iwi and hapū), and their ancestral lands.
2. Shared Values and Teachings:
   Māori cultural heritage encompasses core values such as manaakitanga (hospitality and care for others), whanaungatanga (relationships and kinship), and kotahitanga (unity and collective strength). These values guide family interactions and decision-making.
3. Preservation of Language and Traditions:
   The Māori language (te reo Māori), customs (tikanga), and practices like haka, waiata (songs), and traditional weaving (raranga) are treasured aspects of cultural heritage. Families play a vital role in preserving and transmitting these traditions to younger generations.
4. Spiritual and Environmental Connection:
   Māori cultural heritage emphasizes the sacred relationship between people and the natural world. Families uphold the stewardship (kaitiakitanga) of land, waterways, and resources, teaching the importance of sustainability and respect for nature.
5. Strength and Resilience:
   Cultural heritage provides strength in the face of challenges. It reminds Māori families of their ancestors’ resilience and inspires them to carry forward their legacy with pride.
6. Community and Collective Well-being:
   Māori cultural heritage fosters a sense of whānau not just within the immediate family but also in the extended community. It emphasizes collective well-being over individual pursuits, creating a support network that nurtures everyone.

 For Māori families, cultural heritage is a source of pride, identity, and unity. It binds generations together, preserves the richness of their history and traditions, and ensures that the values, knowledge, and stories of the past continue to guide their present and future.