As the sun painted the sky over Te Whare Rūnanga, the air was alive with melodies, conversations, and the rhythmic splash of paddles gliding through the ocean. Among the thousands gathered at Waitangi, each person carried their own dreams and aspirations for the future of Aotearoa. From the indigenous Tangata Whenua to the Treaty partners Tangata Tiriti, whether seasoned attendees or first-time guests, the shared vision for Aotearoa echoed a resounding theme – unity or kotahitanga.
Waka Mana Wāhine Inspire the Next Generation
Out on the water, Tanya Rogers stood proudly as the kaihautū, or captain, of Tī Eke Waka o Te Arawa, a waka led exclusively by wāhine. Hailing from Ngāti Whakaue and Taranaki, she described the journey to Waitangi as a challenging yet deeply rewarding experience. The preparation involved rigorous training throughout the winter, encompassing dry-land paddles to refine their skills. For many in the crew, including Rogers, this marked their inaugural voyage to Waitangi, an experience she described as nothing short of magical.
However, Rogers emphasized that their mission extended beyond the physical act of paddling. She highlighted their crucial role in nurturing the younger generation, particularly aspiring wāhine, to become leaders in their own right. Rogers expressed her hope that the youth witnessing the waka celebrations were inspired to embody the qualities of ‘mana wāhine’ and ‘wāhine toa’ – strong and courageous women.
Reflecting on her aspirations for the future of Aotearoa, Rogers underscored the importance of unity or kotahitanga. She envisioned a country where Māori people stand together in strength, paving the way for the generations to come.
Paving the Way for Our Mokopuna
Kataraina WiHongi, accompanied by her mokopuna, envisioned a future rooted in peace and justice. Her heartfelt desire was for a society where justice and peace prevail for the children and grandchildren, guided by humility and tranquility. While observing the waka festivities with her mokopuna, WiHongi reminisced about the evolving nature of the space.
She recounted her childhood memories of swimming in what was once perceived as a Pākehā domain, noting the significant shift towards Māori representation in contemporary times. WiHongi emphasized the importance of embracing the cultural resurgence, exemplified by the integration of te reo in educational settings. She stressed the need to wholeheartedly embrace these changes for the benefit of future generations.
A Space for All New Zealanders
Pat Gray, Agnes Hermans, Ange Jones, and Margo Irvine, members of the Whangārei Network Waitangi, shared their organization’s longstanding commitment to educating Pākehā on Treaty matters. Their current focus on constitutional transformation, informed by the Matike Mai report, envisions a future where tino rangatiratanga, or self-determination, is upheld. Hermans articulated the belief that an Aotearoa founded on the principles of Te Tiriti would yield benefits for all New Zealanders.
Jones echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how honoring tino rangatiratanga and Te Tiriti fosters a thriving environment that encapsulates the core values of Māori culture. She emphasized that these values, such as environmental stewardship, contribute to making Aotearoa a remarkable nation. While adorned in their ‘Tangata Tiriti’ attire at Waitangi, Hermans noted the overwhelming support and warmth they had received, particularly from the tangata whenua, expressing gratitude for their presence.
Irvine reflected on the transformative experience of attending Waitangi, underscoring the fervent hope that all New Zealanders could partake in the vibrant atmosphere of the event. She marveled at the passion, camaraderie, and unity on display, describing it as a truly special experience.
Wiremu Keretene (Ngāti Hine) cradles a slumbering child during the waka exhibition at Tii Beach this morning.
Photo: RNZ / Peter de Graaf
A First-Time Visitor’s Perspective
For a first-time visitor from Tāmaki Makaurau, Waitangi left an indelible mark. She described the event as a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming celebration that resonated with both Tangata Whenua and Pākehā alike. Reflecting on the essence of life as an adventure, she expressed her desire for a more unified society that respects and honors tangata whenua.
As the sun set on Waitangi, illuminating the hopes and dreams of those present, the vision of a unified, inclusive Aotearoa burned brightly in the hearts of all who gathered.