Mana Whenua - Te Whanganui-a-Tara

Mana Whenua is a programme designed to deepen understanding of Māori identity, authority, and connection to place.  What does the term "mana whenua" mean?  Who are mana whenua (individuals and entities) and what role do they play?

To illustrate these concepts, we examine Te Upoko o Te Ika as a key case study, tracing the historical journey of how iwi from Taranaki, Waikato, and Te Matau a Māui (Hawke's Bay) migrated to the Wellington region and over time established a mana whenua presence in the region.

By the end of the programme, participants will have a better understanding and be better equipped to navigate the cultural landscape of mana whenua and mana whenua entities within the Wellington region.

During Mana Whenua you will learn about:

• The term mana whenua, its origins, how it is used today and its importance for both Māori and non-Māori in the future.

• Who are mana whenua, and what roles do they play. We explore the concept of mana whenua and discuss the unique role of mana whenua in the context of Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Mana whenua in Te Upoko o Te Ika - Greater Wellington. We use the Greater Wellington region as a case study of how various iwi migrated throughout the country in the early 1800's and how these migrations have influenced mana whenua status in the Greater Wellington region. We also delve into the Treaty Settlements process and distinguish the role of mandated iwi authorities, Post Settlement Governance Entities (PSGE) and other Māori legal entities and trusts.

• How to effectively engage with mana whenua throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and develop and maintain meaningful relationships underpinned by strong cultural values and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

This programme is suited for:

• Government agencies aiming to strengthen Crown-Māori relationships through meaningful engagement with iwi and Māori organisations.

• Private sector organisations and NGO's looking to build authentic relationships with Māori partners and communities.

• Individuals seeking to better understand the role of mana whenua and iwi hapū across Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Anyone wanting to learn more about their local history and contribute to a more informed, equitable, and inclusive Aotearoa New Zealand.

Join us on this one-day programme and deepen your understanding of mana whenua and mana whenua entities in the Greater Wellington region.  Learn about the roles and responsibilities of mana whenua entities and how to engage with them with integrity and purposeful intent.