Mātangireia Waka Trust

About Us

Mātangireia Waka Trust stands as a beacon of cultural preservation and education, operating as a non-profit and registered charitable organization. Its core mission revolves around the meticulous learning, safeguarding, and dissemination of the rich heritage encompassing traditional Māori waka (canoe) practices, the native tongue of the Māori people, te reo Māori, and the diverse realm of Māori arts. At the heart of this endeavor are the MWT trustees, who are not only deeply experienced in voyaging and navigation but also in the broader spectrum of cultural practices and traditions.

These trustees are a blend of skilled practitioners, astute researchers, and fervent advocates, each bringing a unique perspective and depth of knowledge to the Trust. Their collective expertise ensures that the traditions are not only preserved in their most authentic forms but are also imparted and celebrated across communities and generations.

Through various programs and initiatives, the Trust actively engages with the community, facilitating workshops, seminars, and hands-on experiences. These activities are designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Māori culture, ensuring its vibrant continuity. The Trust also plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the past and the present, making these ancient practices relevant and accessible in today’s world, thereby enriching the cultural tapestry of New Zealand.

Our Purpose

At Mātangireia Waka Trust, we embody the essence of our teachings in every aspect of our work. Our involvement is not just theoretical but deeply practical and hands-on. Furthermore, MWT forms a vital link in bringing together diverse expertise in areas such as climate change, marine science, ocean health, and the art of non-instrument navigation.

Our commitment extends to empowering Māori communities, including both the youth (rangatahi) and elders (pakeke), as well as families (whānau), subtribes (hapū), and tribes (iwi). This empowerment also reaches scientists, practitioners, and students through our comprehensive programs.

Our goal is to significantly enhance both marine and terrestrial research initiatives, creating more opportunities for the youth (rangatahi) and families (whānau) to reap the benefits of the synergistic relationship between traditional Māori knowledge (mātauranga Māori) and contemporary scientific disciplines. By doing so, we aim to foster a rich, collaborative environment for learning and growth in these crucial areas.

Our Responsibility

The vast expanse of the ocean serves as a living bridge that links us to our ancestors who traversed the Pacific, and it forms a connecting pathway among communities throughout New Zealand. Our engagements with Tangaroa, the god of the sea, and Hinemoana, the personification of the ocean, highlight the profound nature of our mahinga kai (traditional food-gathering) relationships and our deep-seated responsibilities as kaitiaki (guardians). This guardianship extends from ki uta (the land) to ki tai (the sea), embodying a holistic approach to environmental stewardship.

The well-being of our oceans is pivotal to our future, underpinning our way of life and cultural identity. Our intimate knowledge of the sea is fundamental in guiding our actions to nurture and protect it. This knowledge, passed down through generations, informs our sustainable practices and our commitment to maintaining the ocean's health for the generations to come.

Our Values

Values are the guiding principles or standards of behavior that individuals and groups ascribe to and uphold. They are deeply ingrained beliefs that influence how people perceive the world around them, make decisions, and act in various situations.

  • This principle embodies the spirit of reciprocity, emphasizing the importance of sharing, caring for others, and recognizing the unique contributions and differences that each individual brings. It is about nurturing relationships and ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment.

  • This concept encourages us to embrace diverse cultural backgrounds, fostering and safeguarding the relationships we develop. These relationships are underpinned by manaakitanga, ensuring a foundation of mutual respect and care.

  • Our commitment to hauora is about promoting and supporting a holistic approach to well-being, encompassing not just physical and mental health but also spiritual well-being (te taha wairua). We believe in nurturing all aspects of health to achieve overall wellness.