Engaging with Mana Whenua

Question 1

uara Māori

Answer 1

Māori values

While there are many examples of uara Māori, the values of Manaakitanga, Whanaungatanga and Rangatiratanga* are all prominent concepts which apply in any situation when connecting and working with Mana Whenua and kaupapa Māori groups. The expression of these values are often shown through pōwhiri or mihi whakatau / welcome processes, mihimihi / acknowledgements and introductions, and through showing genuine care, respect and reciprocity within engagements. When contacting or engaging with Mana Whenua, it is important to prepare for this and future expressions throughout the relationship, keep in mind that these operate on a reciprocal basis.

Manaakitanga, Whanaungatanga and Rangatiratanga are universal concepts that apply to everyone, elevating and caring for the mana / prestige of another.

Question 2

Mana Motuhake

Answer 2

Unique identity, autonomy

Question 3

Manaakitanga

Answer 3

Uplifting the mana of others

Question 4

Whanaungatanga

Answer 4

Relationships, a sense of belonging

Question 5

Rangatiratanga

Answer 5

Self-determination, leadership

Question 6

Uara

Answer 6

Māori values

Question 7

Pōwhiri

Answer 7

Formal welcome process

Question 8

Mihi Whakatau

Answer 8

Informal welcome process

Question 9

Whaikōrero

Answer 9

Formal speeches

Question 10

Koha

Answer 10

Donation of gratitude

Question 11

kōrero

Answer 11

discussions

Question 12

Kaiwhakahaere

Answer 12

Facilitator

At the conclusion of a hui with Mana Whenua, conducting mihimihi and acknowledgement of the initiative and those present ensures that the mana of the hui is upheld from beginning to end. This is also a good point where the Kaiwhakahaere / Facilitator of the hui can advise on what follows and direct those present to share in kai and further kōrero prior to the closing karakia.

Question 13

hau kāinga

Answer 13

home people

Question 14

paramana

Answer 14

food and refreshments

It is customary for the hau kāinga / home people to prepare food and refreshments for the guests. Therefore, if you are visiting Mana Whenua on their marae, you can usually expect that kai will be prepared for you. If you are hosting Mana Whenua into your workspace, it is then your responsibility to organise paramana / food and refreshments.

Question 15

whakanoa

Answer 15

lifting or removing tapu

No matter the formality of the situation, if a hui is being guided by tikanga Māori, protocols of sharing in kai at the conclusion of the hui should still be adhered to. This is a way of whakanoa / lifting or removing tapu, restrictions or heaviness from the kōrero / discussion shared within the hui. This is also an opportunity for further, more informal discussion and an opportunity for whanaungatanga, building rapport and relationships, to take place.