KIINGITANGA

Whaea Pare Hopa fondly recalls her family home and how it evolved into a space for discussions on significant topics concerning Waikato. With her grandfather serving as an advisor to the Kingitanga, these conversations often revolved around this pivotal aspect. Whaea Pare Hopa also shares insights into her upbringing within the Kingitanga movement, highlighting her relationship with Te Atairangikaahu, the first Māori Queen and touches on the influence of Princess Te Puea on the hearts and minds of the young people at the marae.

Whaea Hekeiterangi Broadhurst enlightens us on the genesis of the Kingitanga movement and the inaugural coronation of the first Maaori King, Pootatau Te Wherowhero. Originating in response to the loss of land confiscated by the Crown, this movement took shape through deliberations aimed around the possibility of a Maaori King, with Waikato and Turangawaewae emerging as pivotal locations for this movement. Furthermore, Whaea Hekeiterangi Broadhurst delves into Pootatau Te Wherowhero's initial reluctance to assume the kingship, highlighting the necessity of addressing issues such as apologies and forgiveness prior to the coronation ceremony.

Nana Ruruhira describes her personal journey of service to the Kiingitanga, accompanying Te Arikinui, the Maaori Queen. She was invited to travel with the ‘Lady’ on many occasions as her haawene (lady in waiting). Kiingitanga was about manaaki tangata, to always look after the people and the land.

In this video, we learn what it was like growing up in a whaanau that strongly supported the Kiingitanga movement. We also hear about the community's response when the Kiingitanga put out a call for help. Additionally, we learn about Poukai and the importance of having an open forum to discuss and debate key issues. A deep sense of reverence and respect is evident in Matua Tuku Puhipuhi as he speaks on the Kiingitanga.