In a day filled with reflection, celebration, and kotahitanga, the Whakatōhea iwi recently gathered to respectfully close the Whakatōhea Māori Trust Board and welcome a new era under Te Tāwharau o Te Whakatōhea. The event, held on Saturday, November 2, was a successful milestone for the iwi, symbolising both the achievements of the past and the promise of the future.
The day began in the early hours with a karakia at the Te Tāwharau o Te Whakatōhea office, where members of the community joined together in a moment to acknowledge the efforts and accomplishments of the Trust Board over the last 75 years. This was then followed by a breakfast and a celebration at Waiaua Marae, where the atmosphere was one of joy and optimism as attendees looked forward to the new direction for the iwi.
"This event was about more than just closing a chapter; it was about honouring the journey that has brought us here and embracing the path ahead," said Renee Shepherd, Marketing and Communications Manager.
"Te Tāwharau o Te Whakatōhea represents a future of growth, unity, and prosperity for our people. Seeing so many members of our whānau come together in support and celebration."
The launch of Te Tāwharau o Te Whakatōhea marks the beginning of a new iwi entity that will lead Whakatōhea into its next phase, building on the foundation laid by the Trust Board. The focus will be on ensuring the ongoing development, cultural strength, and well-being of Whakatōhea.
Community members expressed their appreciation for the smooth and respectful transition, celebrating the progress made and the deep sense of unity that defines Whakatōhea. The event showcased the iwi and their commitment to Manaakitanga as everyone gathered to support and uplift one another.
I attended the Celebration Nov 2 Saturday, as I do others, that document the stages of our ongoing journey. I loved the joyous environment of the day, the optimism; the illustrated capture of our demonstrated endured history, our clarified Iwi pathways AND then the vision and the promise of great days in front of us.... my heartfelt thanks go out to the amazing and honourable people who have worked so hard to make it 'so'.... we are a fortunate people indeed.... I will always believe there are more good times ahead and to those of our Iwi who are 'yet to come inside'.... I thought too, of you, 💓 that day.