Pan-Māori Assembly: A Unifying Force to Challenge the Government
In a historic gathering of around 300 Māori leaders at Omāhu near Hastings, a new pan-Māori entity is taking shape to address government challenges. The assembly, known as Wānanga-ā-Motu, aims to foster a collective response from Māori communities that transcends the conventional structures of Parliament.
Unity in Diversity: A Call for Collaboration
The momentum for this initiative began last year with a series of hui initiated by the late Kiingi Tuheitia, urging Māori unity. Following these calls, a working group emerged from a hui hosted by Ngāti Kahungunu, proposing a groundbreaking model called Te Whare o te Rangatiratanga. This model comprises three essential components—an assembly of iwi, hapū, and Māori groups; engagement with the Crown and Parliament; and a joint deliberative body to navigate collective challenges.
Chair of Te Rūnanga o Toarangatira and working group member, Helmut Modlik, highlighted the limitations faced by Māori in responding to government issues, emphasizing the need for more efficient mechanisms beyond protests and submissions. The proposed model aims to empower Māori to consolidate their influence effectively in addressing shared concerns.
Fostering Collective Engagement: Building the Path Forward
Bayden Barber of Ngāti Kahungunu emphasized the importance of garnering widespread support from Māori communities for the proposed model. The upcoming hui at Omāhu serves as a platform to refine and present the vision of ‘Te Whare o te Rangatiratanga’ for thorough discussion and deliberation by the motu.
Reverend Zhane Tiopira Tāhau, a leader in Omāhu, underscored the significance of unity and collaboration within the Māori community, urging representatives from various iwi to participate in the wānanga. With a focus on inclusivity and shared decision-making, the assembly seeks to embody the proverbial wisdom of being part of a collective rather than standing on the sidelines.
Navigating the Path Ahead: Embracing Change Together
As the Wānanga-ā-Motu unfolds, the participation of diverse voices and perspectives is crucial in shaping a collective future for Māori communities. The call for unity, engagement, and shared decision-making resonates through the halls of Kahukuranui, echoing the spirit of collaboration and progress envisioned by Māori leaders nationwide.
The journey towards a pan-Māori assembly marks a transformative moment in Māori governance and representation, heralding a new chapter of unity and resilience in the face of government challenges. As the assembly sets the stage for forthcoming events at Rātana and Waitangi, the collective spirit of Te Whare o te Rangatiratanga shines brightly, illuminating a path of shared empowerment and solidarity for Māori communities across Aotearoa.