As part of our cultural learning journey, our group had the privilege of visiting a local marae—a pivotal experience that brought te ao Māori (the Māori world) to life in a truly immersive and meaningful way. This site visit was not just educational but transformative, offering us a deeper appreciation for Māori customs, values, and protocols in their authentic context.
From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was one of reverence and respect. We were formally welcomed onto the marae with a pōwhiri, a traditional ceremony that marked our transition from manuhiri (visitors) to honoured guests. The call of the karanga, performed by a kuia (elder woman) of the tangata whenua (hosts), resonated deeply. It served as a spiritual invitation, acknowledging our arrival and connecting us to the land and ancestors. Following the karanga, the whaikōrero (oratory speeches) were delivered by kaumātua (elders), reinforcing the significance of the occasion and the importance of tikanga—the correct customs and protocols to be observed on marae grounds.
A moment of profound connection came with the hongi, the traditional Māori greeting where people press noses to symbolically share the breath of life. Participating in this ritual offered us more than just a cultural insight—it provided a tangible sense of unity and mutual respect.
Inside the wharenui (meeting house), we were surrounded by stories. The walls were adorned with symbolic artwork, each detail carrying its own whakapapa (genealogy) and kōrero tuku iho (ancestral stories). Our hosts shared the meaning behind these taonga (treasures), showing us how identity, history, and spirituality are embedded in every aspect of the marae’s design. These narratives weren’t just told—they were felt. Through this, we came to understand how the Māori worldview sees people, land, and ancestors as inextricably linked.
Beyond listening and observing, we were encouraged to participate in hands-on activities grounded in Māori values. Whether it was learning waiata (songs), understanding the roles of different iwi (tribes), or contributing to shared kai (food), each experience reinforced the central concept of whanaungatanga—the sense of kinship and belonging that binds communities together.
This marae visit was more than a cultural field trip—it was an act of manaakitanga (hospitality and care) from our hosts and a deeply enriching experience for us as learners. It reminded us that understanding culture is not something achieved through reading alone, but through respectful participation, open-mindedness, and heartfelt engagement.
We leave the marae not just with more knowledge, but with greater empathy, a deeper connection to the people of Aotearoa, and a renewed commitment to honouring te Tiriti o Waitangi in our everyday practice.
Congratulations to all our amazing students who participated in the visit!
