In September 2023, whānau gathered at Kauhanga Marae around a kaupapa that brought together te reo Māori, tikanga and the traditions of waka. What began as a series of reo-focused wānanga would contribute to something much bigger—the resurgence of kaupapa waka within Ngāti Kahu and the return of our waka taua, Te Rangimārie, to the water.

Supported by Te Mātāwai, Utāina created opportunities for whānau to strengthen their confidence in te reo Māori by using the language within the everyday life of the marae and through activities grounded in mātauranga Māori. Six wānanga were held between September 2023 and January 2024, with around 40 people attending each wānanga, including tamariki, rangatahi and adults.

Learning through Kaupapa Waka

Whānau learned te reo by doing. Karakia, mihimihi, waiata, haka and kauhau were woven through each wānanga alongside activities such as raranga, rongoā, mau rākau, taonga pūoro and kaupapa waka.

Learning continued beyond workshops. Waiata filled the wharekai as whānau worked together, while waka and mau rākau developed language through commands, observation and movement. Te reo became part of everyday life on the marae.

Local tutors brought knowledge of te reo, tikanga, pūoro, whakairo, tū taua and hītori, grounding the kaupapa in people connected to Kauhanga.

Whānau Coming back into the Kaupapa

Whānau learned te reo through karakia, waiata, haka, raranga, rongoā, mau rākau and kaupapa waka. Learning continued throughout marae life, supported by local tutors sharing knowledge of te reo, tikanga and hītori.

A defining moment came at Taipā Point with the relaunch of Te Rangimārie, the Ngāti Kahu waka taua. Around 100 people gathered as months of learning and training came together.

The kaupapa continued beyond the wānanga, with every participating tāne aged 18 and over choosing to paddle Te Rangimārie at Waitangi 2024.

Building Capacity for the Future

Utāina brought new whānau into kaupapa waka and te reo Māori. Through practical learning, whānau built confidence in te reo and strengthened their knowledge of tikanga and kaupapa waka.

The programme renewed interest in Te Rangimārie and created momentum for the future. A committee was formed to continue the kaupapa. Te Rangimārie was back on the water, with a new generation of kaihoe ready to carry it forward.