Background

In Te Tairāwhiti it is important to look after relationships and take appropriate steps by including marae, pakeke and whānau. To have clear and inclusive communication to be successful. Therefore, these initial months are focused on doing just that, building a relationship, and understanding with the community promoting Te Aho Tū Roa and the new Te Tira Taiao programme.

I ahu mai tātou i hea? Where did we originate from?

Establishing the new programme in Waipiro Bay and Te Puia Springs has been a journey of resilience and innovation in the face of significant challenges. Cyclone Gabrielle left our roads severed and our tamariki and whānau weren’t able to access essential services including school. Recognising the detrimental impact of losing local schools and Kōhanga reo (pre-schools), this project is an approach to bridge the gap and provide our tamariki with education and create connection to their whenua and culture.

The time following Gabrielle highlighted that our tamariki in Waipiro Bay and Te Puia Springs are at a disadvantage and there is a need for this programme, to create greater connection with their identity, people and each other.

Kei hea tātou ināianei? Where are we now?

Hīkoi to Port Awanui via old route

Next Steps Taken to Establish a New Programme

To engage closely with the community to understand their specific needs and aspirations, ensuring that the programme is deeply rooted in our collective identity and cultural heritage.

• Attaining written support from local marae and sub-tribes such as Te Whānau-a-Iritekura, Ngai Taharora, Te Whānau-a-Rakairoa to apply for funding from Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Porou to assist in expenses.
• To hold an information and planning day for rangatahi and whānau in February at Iritekura marae.
• Attain commitment for collaborations with environmental kaupapa, marae and a number of schools.

Me Ahu Pēhea? What is our direction?

A trip was taken to Port Awanui to investigate access and possible areas for our youth to engage with. Exploring waterways, native reserves as part of health and safety, following Gabrielle – looking for the safest pathways and how to mitigate risks.

Port Awanui is rich with history, and now it is just nature that remains.

Whakatinanatanga

Engaging with Whānau: Research and Planning Phase

Embarking on the research and planning phase of Te Tira Taiao is an enriching experience that highlights the importance of connecting with the community in meaningful ways. To initiate this phase, a Meet and Greet was organised at the local store, a focal point in Waipiro Bay and Te Puia Springs. This gathering allowed direct engagement with whānau, fostering open dialogue and sharing the vision of Te Tira Taiao.

It was a valuable opportunity to listen to their insights, concerns, and aspirations, ensuring that the programme truly reflects the community’s needs.

Speaking with Grandparents and parents about the new Kaupapa coming to their hapori. The rain held a lot of people off, but every bit of kōrero and exposure helps progress us forward.

In addition to face-to-face interactions, both online and physical posters were employed to reach a broader audience. The online posters were shared through community social media groups, making it easier for busy families to access information and express interest. Meanwhile, vibrant physical posters were displayed prominently at the local shop, capturing the attention of passers-by and serving as a constant reminder of our initiative.

Word of mouth played a crucial role in spreading awareness about the programme. Engaging in casual conversations with tamariki and their whānau built excitement and anticipation for Te Tira Taiao. These interactions highlighted the community’s eagerness to reconnect with their environment and heritage.