Taranaki Karanga Maha

At the end of September, Taranaki’s fourth Karanga Maha was held at Aotearoa Marae in Okaiawa. Meaning ‘Many Voices’, this two-day hui aimed to create a safe space for whānau hauā (disabled Māori) to be heard. Whānau, support workers and community were welcomed to participate in a festival of conversation and connecting.

The event was organised by CCS Disability Action’s North Taranaki branch and a local steering group. It kicked off at 10am with a pōwhiri, an opportunity to learn about the Marae’s history and Whakawhanaungatanga (introductions). Any nervousness quickly melted away thanks to the supportive environment. The Kaupapa (core theme) was Rongoā; health and wellbeing. The impacts of Covid-19 caused increased anxiety, heightened stress, isolation and unwellness. The steering group therefore decided that this Karanga Maha should focus on fun, positivity and wellness.

The afternoon featured a mental health talk from Paul Rangiwahia, wellbeing advocate and artist. A collection of words was gathered and will be used to create a digital art piece. The next day started with a reflective but emotional meditation session where peers supported and comforted one another. Music was always present, including the soulful voice of musician Unity Wara. The shining stars of the event were two young girls who joyfully danced and sang along to the waiata.

For steering group member Shirley Close it was incredible to see all their hard work and planning come to fruition. “It was such a great day! Unity Wara was great and the kai was fantastic.” She also valued the opportunity to connect with new people. “I liked that other whānau from out of the area came.” Her mokopuna (grandchildren) Kamiyah and Oceania are supported by CCS Disability Action and they both had an awesome time.

Other highlights were workshops on growing vegetables with Sustainable Taranaki and making kawakawa balm with Andrea Ratahi Clarke. Andrea’s yin yoga and Hori Clay’s Tai Chi sessions were also very popular. Fiona Turner, who is also supported by CCS Disability Action felt “welcomed” and “safe.” She explains: “I loved the kai, talking to everyone, the company, the singing. Tai chi was my favourite!”

Whaea Annitta guided guests through making Parāoa Parai (fry bread) and Toroi (a mussel and vegetable dish). Annitta and her team did an amazing job catering the event.

Thanks to Poihakena Portraits’ Te-o-wai Ratahi, guests were able to get a traditional Māori portrait taken. Their shoulders were draped in beautiful korowai, they wore a majestic feather or bowler hat and had a chance to hold the prestigious mere. A first for some, this resulted in emotional moments.

With a turnout of up to 90 people, Karanga Maha was well received. “It was a great success and the feedback has been most positive,” says Paparina Burgoyne, Senior Coordinator and member of Te Pou Whirinaki Māori Development Group. Feedback will inform and shape best cultural practice and service delivery to whanau hāua. The information gathered also supports information for future funding applications for the next Karanga Maha event.

“Ka moemoa ahau, ko ahau anake
Ka moemoea tatou, ka taea e tatou.” 

"If I am to dream, I dream alone.
If we all dream together, then we shall achieve."

–Te Puea Herangi