Hapori Māori

Only through these stories can we understand and appreciate our relationship with te ao Māori, mana whenua, and whenua.

We acknowledge the unique contribution of te ao Māori to our funding regions.  

Over the past decade, Rātā Foundation has been on a journey seeking māramatanga (understanding) - one that brings us closer to understanding the aspirations of iwi, hapū, and whānau across Waitaha, Te Tauihu o Te Waka a Māui, and Rēkohu/Wharekauri.

Te haerenga (the journey) has taken many roads as we strive to meet our purpose to create an equitable and sustainable society under the korowai of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and weave the principles and values of te ao Māori and mātauranga Māori into the Rātā mahi.

To do this we needed to understand and identify the priorities and aspirations of Māori in a way that comes from a place of empowerment and strength and allows for longer-term partnerships.

We have built on the foundations of our mana-to-mana relationships and connections with iwi, hapū, and whānau through meaningful and consistent engagement, kanohi ki te kanohi.

We recognise and respect the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and will continue to strengthen our relationships with mana whenua, tangata whenua and iwi as partners to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

Whakawhanaungatanga - making connections and building relationships with iwi, hapū and whānau has been an essential part of our journey together. These relationships and connections have guided Rātā to better understand and support those aspirations for a shared future - kotahitanga.