We are excited to be holding a wānanga in Ngataki, Muriwhenua! Through engaging workshops, discussions, and activities, we aim to explore the essence of Takiwātanga, providing whānau to be self-determining leaders and to navigate life's journey with resilience, confidence and understanding. We also want to ensure professionals have access to culturally grounded learnings.
Below are some FAQ’s to assist with learning more about the wananga, but please feel free to get in touch if your questions are not answered below!
What is the wānanga about?
The wānanga is about coming together to celebrate our taonga (special treasures) and provide a space for creating whānau-led solutions. At the wānanga we will talk about a Te Ao Māori perspective to takiwātanga, share experiences on what it is like living with takiwātanga and share tips and strategies for whānau on these journeys and professionals who support our taonga.
What can I gain from participating in the wānanga?
Our hope is that those who attend the wānanga leave feeling empowered. Empowered to continue on their journey, empowered to change the negative stigma that surrounds takiwātanga and disability in general. We wish for whānau to feel assured and acknowledged in expressing their needs and understanding how the community can provide support. We hope professionals have the confidence to support taonga with strength-based approaches and best how to engage with our whānau Māori.
Who is running the wānanga?
Kanorau with the awhi of Te Hiku Hauora and Te Kumara (a whānau-led ropu supporting taonga takiwātanga in the Far North) have been working together to get these wānanga running. Kanorau are a whānau who are raising their boy living with takiwātanga and work in this space to support other whānau on similar journeys.
Who can attend the wānanga?
Anyone! The wānanga is for everyone and anyone who would like to attend, fill their kete and learn more about takiwātanga or come together to share experiences. You may be whānau on this journey, you may be a professional who support taonga or you may just be interested in learning more. Please feel free to bring your taonga takiwātanga as well! If there are any accessibility needs you require, please reach out to us! The wānanga is not limited to takiwātanga, all neuro-diverse taonga and their whānau are welcome!
What will happen after the wānanga?
We want to hear from whānau on what it is they want! We are hoping that these wānanga will be the catalyst of many! Kanorau will be available to help those who require further support or would like to do one on one workshops or professional development. Te Hiku Hauora are currently undertaking an assessment on the needs of whānau in the Far North and hope the information shared during the wānanga will inform further support services to address those needs.
I have some questions about the wānanga, who can I contact?
If you have any pātai please feel free to contact:
Kimiora Barrett - 09 409 7880 ext 225 – 0800879 967
Jaycee Maunsell-McMenamin (Te Hiku Hauora) - 021864337
Jess Hita (Kanorau) - 02102331035