Tauranga to host National Iwi Chairs Forum

Charlie Rahiri with Te Toka a Tirikawa behind him. Supplied photos.

Tauranga Moana is gearing up to host a significant agthering of iwi leaders next month.

Ngāti Ranginui says it's proud to announce that it will be hosting the National Iwi Chairs Forum from the 1st to the 3rd of May 1-3.

Iwi leaders from across Aotearoa will come together to deliberate on pivotal issues affecting Māori and the wider nation.

The theme for this year's forum, underscored by the Whakataukī, “Ahakoa uhi uhi ngā ngaru, Ka whakaea anō te toka a Tirikawa" (Irrespective of the waves that crash continuously, Tirikawa rock remains resolute and prominent), reflects the steadfastness and resilience required in the face of ongoing political challenges impacting Māori communities.

This proverbial saying eloquently encapsulates the spirit with which our people will engage in discussions and decision-making processes at the forum.

“This forum is a testament to our collective resilience and unity,” says Ngāti Ranginui chairperson Charlie Rahiri.

“It serves not only as a meeting place for our leaders but as a beacon of hope and strength for our people, especially as we draw inspiration from our ancestors who stood firm at Pukehinahina.

“Their legacy empowers us to navigate through contemporary challenges with dignity and determination.

”The timing of the forum is especially poignant, as it aligns closely with the 160-year commemoration of the Battle of Pukehinahina (Gate Pā), a pivotal event in New Zealand's history.

“The commemoration of Pukehinahina serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices of our tupuna. It inspires us to stand strong in the face of adversity, honoring their legacy through our actions and deliberations at this forum.”

National Iwi Chairs at last hui Waitangi February 2024.

During the three-day event, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a range of topics including environmental and climate, economic development, health, te tiriti  and the preservation of te reo and tīkanga Māori.

The forum will also serve as a platform to celebrate our successes, share knowledge and strategies, and forge stronger ties among iwi.

“Together, in the spirit of kotahitanga, we will confront the pressing issues of our time, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of our people and all Aotearoa for generations to come.”

 

2 comments

Who pays

Posted on 12-04-2024 17:30 | By Angels

Of course the 83% of kiwis. We keep promoting and paying for a lot of nonsense . Why when 18% of population have TOO much say. Iwi pay less than 11% of tax collected but use ??? Percentage of all .
They are over represented in welfare, jail, uneducated and costing The 83% huge money. Time for accountability
Two tax system 1 Maori 1 other.
Maori r can spend what pay and then use what they have collected . not rape and pillage the balance of society. Then true accountability and stop the bs crying. We want more and more. Pay your own way


Awesome.......Toitū te Tiriti

Posted on 13-04-2024 10:42 | By Jeff M

This is so great to see, and perfect timing as the Tauranga Moana community (and Aotearoa/NZ as a whole) commemorates, remembers (and hopefully learns from) the significant events that happened only 160 years ago. It is obvious we still have a long way to go in educating our communities (as the ignorant comment above by Angel reinforces).

Well done to Charlie and other rangatira (and their kaimahi) of Tauranga Moana for making this happen, and bringing this significant hui to our place - ngā mihi nui ki a koutou.

From a enlightened pākehā (a recovering racist if you will)


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