Our Mahi
Mana Whenua Aotearoa has been instrumental in empowering communities across Aotearoa through a diverse range of initiatives. Our support has reached into sports like rugby, boxing, canoeing, mau rākau, and kapa haka, fostering physical health, discipline, and a sense of whanaungatanga across generations. We engage closely with tamariki and kaumātua, creating connections that bridge age gaps and pass down valuable mātauranga.
The haka, a taonga tuku iho (sacred tradition), is far more than a war dance. While it was performed by our toa (warriors) before battle to demonstrate mana (power) and intimidate opponents, it also served as a process to strengthen our tinana (body), hinengaro (mind), and wairua (spirit). The haka allowed us, as tangata whenua (people of the land), to align ourselves, build kotahitanga (unity), and share important messages between whānau and iwi. At the heart of the haka is the ringakāti (clenched fist), a powerful symbol of strength, resilience, and our determination to stand together.
Te reo Māori is a taonga (treasure) that embodies the spirit and identity of Tangata Whenua. As the indigenous language of our tīpuna, te reo carries with it the histories, values, and worldview unique to Māori. It is a vehicle for mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) that connects us to the past, grounds us in the present, and guides us toward the future. Each kupu (word), phrase, and whakataukī (proverb) holds within it the wisdom of our tīpuna (ancestors), encapsulating a way of seeing and being that resonates deeply with us as tangata whenua (Waitangi Tribunal, 1986).
Mana Whenua Aotearoa is dedicated to enhancing our hauora, supporting our tinana, hinengaro, and wairua. Through kaupapa like rugby, canoeing, and kapa haka, we build strength, kotahitanga, and whanaungatanga. We stand alongside whānau as we face addictions, heal mamae from past trauma, and support our kaumātua, including those affected by mate wareware (dementia) and Alzheimer's. With initiatives in ārai mate whakamomori (suicide prevention), tāne support, and mana wāhine, we create safe spaces for healing and resilience. Mana Whenua Aotearoa Manatopu ensures our hauora is upheld, empowering us to carry our mana and mauri forward as iwi, towards a better future for our tamariki and mokopuna.
Tautoko me Whakamana
We’re here to whakamana (empower) our hapori (community ) and provide tautoko (support) for any whakahaere (initiatives) you may have.
If you would like our assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us by clicking the link below. We look forward to collaborating with you!
