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TE NGAHERE

COME WITH US ON A JOURNEY THROUGH TE NGAHERE, VIEW OUR PROCESSES AND EXPERIENCES......

When we venture into the ngahere, to gather rongoā (traditional medicine) and rakau (native plants), we carry with us a deep reverence for nature and cultural values that guide our interactions. Before harvesting, we observe and connect with the environment, acknowledging the mauri (life force) of the plants and the whenua (land) that sustains them. Throughout the process of gathering, we show respect by only taking what is needed, ensuring sustainability and reciprocity with nature. As we process rongoā and rakau, we do so with mindfulness and care, following traditional methods passed down through generations. Each step is infused with cultural practices and rituals, honoring the knowledge of our ancestors and maintaining the spiritual integrity of the plants. Through this approach, our connection to the ngahere deepens, and we uphold the cultural values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and manaakitanga (hospitality) in our relationship with the whenua and moana.

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- Our Hikoi -

As we lead tauira into the ngahere and impart the teachings of harvesting using traditional methods and knowledge, our process is deeply rooted in tikanga. Before entering the ngahere, we commence with karakia, acknowledging our tupuna and the generational wisdom they have bestowed upon us. Through our karakia, we express gratitude to our atua for the abundant natural resources they have provided. With humility and respect, we introduce ourselves to the ngahere, recognizing it as a living entity deserving of reverence. This ceremonial approach not only honors our cultural heritage but also instills in tauira a profound connection to the land and a deep sense of responsibility as kaitiaki (guardians).

TĀNE WHAKAPIRIPIRI

"Ko au te whenua, ko te whenua, ko au"
I am the land and the land is me

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