RANGATAHI HUI

Rangatahi - Youth at Raoraokaoere
We held a Rangatahi Hui earlier this year for the youth of Okapu Marae. Our Rangatahi (youth) are our taonga. It is only through them that we can ensure that the structure of our hapu (tribe) will remain strong. All facilitators were of Ngati te Wehi descent - an important element of the Hui as they provided the role models and acted as mentors for the Rangatahi.

Budget Workshop. Facilitator - Sheree Anderson

Feedback from a 14 year old participant of the Rangatahi Hui:

"I think, talking from the whole Rangatahis' point of view, that it [the Rangatahi Hui] influences us with the things we should better ourselves with and prepare for when it is our generation's turn. It was good that we learnt more about our whakapapa and learnt to treasure Aotea and what we possess because it's going to be handed over to us.

I think the Rangatahi fully enjoyed - I know it, and there wasn't anyone who disagreed that we should have it more frequently.

We, the Rangatahi, all agree not to let down our pa and hope we do a good job ... and people will hopefully be there to support the rangatahi. I just hope it will be longer.

On the last day there we were shocked about the tests we did [pipi survey]. I felt angry that our kai moana is disappearing. We need to take care of everything, especially our kai moana. Ever since the commercial fisherman came over our kai has disappeared.

We should learn more about our history and never let that disappear.

We learnt about budgeting and how to save our money.

Auntie Thelma and Wally taught us how we need to clench tight to the knowledge of the Pakeha but still stay strong to the taonga of Maori and use that knowledge to help our marae and people ... and not on the dole. We need to have an education now while we are Rangatahi because when we become old we can make a difference.

I enjoyed my time and only hope we'll have it some time soon again."

Art Workshop with facilitator Jason MatairaArtwork from the Workshop
Art Workshop. Facilitator - Jason Mataira

Preparing for the Pipi Survey with facilitator Syd RifleCarrying out the Pipi Survey
Pipi Survey. Facilitator - Syd Rifle

Playing TouchBoarding the Barge for Raoraokaoere
Training for Oldies vs Rangatahi Touch game and preparing to board a barge for a historical journey across Aotea Harbour to Raoraokaoere.

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