Celebrating
Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori and Matariki
In this issue we look back on our recent
celebrations of Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori
and Matariki.
Matariki is a celebration of culture, language, spirituality and
history. It is a time for giving and sharing, as well as reflecting
on and connecting with the world around us.
Regional Māori Health Services has this year championed
Matariki by leading a programme of activities that has included
opening karakia, a video launch and presentation by Pouroto
Ngaropo, a Matariki themed amazing race, Matariki displays
in Kaupapa 2A and Children’s Wards at Tauranga Hospital
and a fabulous kapa haka performance by Te Kura Kaupapa
o Otepou.
"Matariki is a time to remember the past and to plan for the
New Year," says Kaupapa CNM Anamaria Watene. "It's a time
for whānau, to remember those who came before us and the
legacy they have left behind.
Pouroto Ngaropo opening Matariki celebrations at Whakatāne.
"It's also about promoting and creating an atmosphere of
giving, sharing and caring, not only within our team but within
the wider organisation; of demonstrating the CARE values –
and in reflection helping others, giving to those less fortunate
than ourselves."
The month long programme of activities culminated with a
performance by musical artist, television presenter and local
celebrity, Ria Hall.
Following on from Matariki, BOPDHB celebrated Te Wiki o Te
Reo Māori over the period 4-15 July 2016.
Kapa Haka performances from Allandale School, Apanui
School, Toroa Kōhanga Reo, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o
Te Orini, Te Kura o Te Paroa and staff, were enjoyed at
Whakatāne Hospital. Ngāti Awa Social & Health Services
Kaumātua attended the performances by Te Kura o Te Paroa
and Whakatāne staff, making the occasion even more special.
In Tauranga, guest speaker Awanuiārangi Black presented “Ko
te reo Māori, Hei Rongoā – Māori Language = The Medicine”
at Grand Round. Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori drew to a close on
15 July with a kapa haka performance by Tauranga Hospital
staff, to patients from Health in Aging (HIA).
Regional Māori Health Services wishes to acknowledge staff
and external guests who joined together to bring Matariki and
Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori into the workplace.
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Ngā mihi,
Amohaere Tangitu
Director of Māori Health
Regional Māori Health Services
Ria Hall performed at Tauranga Hospital for Matariki.