Programme reaps benefits for Ngati Mutunga

Iwi members have been through a journey of sustainable agriculture, environment conservation and kai sovereignty.

The Tātai Tangata ki te Whenua o Ngāti Mutunga māra (garden) programme provided whānau with the knowledge and skills related to managing and cultivating land, while empowering the tauira (students) to deepen their connection with their land, culture and heritage. "What an amazing time it has been," said Larnee Wallace, Pou Whiringa Matua of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Mutunga.

"Our tauira engaged in workshops, hands-on learning experiences and Zoom learning practical activities that cover a range of topics such as soil health, planting techniques, water conservation, pest management, regenerative agriculture, and traditional Māori gardening methods by using the Maramataka (Māori Calendar)."

By the completion of the programme, participants are equipped with practical skills and knowledge to care for and cultivate their whenua in ways that are both sustainable and grounded in tikanga Māori.

"This kaupapa not only helps to uphold and protect traditional Māori practices but also plays a vital role in the revitalisation and continuation of our cultural heritage for generations to come," enthused Wallace. "This year, our second cohort begun, one of our participants from the first cohort had the opportunity to train alongside Pounamu Skelton - our key facilitator and the creator of the Tātai Tangata programme."

"Our heartfelt appreciation goes to TET for their generous funding and support, which enable us to provide these programmes for our whānau and uri of Ngāti Mutunga. Your support has truly helped to enrich and strengthen our whānau, nga mihi kia koutou katoa."