Whaanau Life and Mahi

Dive into the vivid memories of Whaea Hekeiterangi Broadhurst as she recounts her upbringing in the Ngaati Wairere community. Growing up amidst economic depression, she experienced firsthand the challenges of limited job opportunities, food scarcity, and the prevalence of diseases like Spanish flu and TB. Through her narrative, Whaea Hekeiterangi challenges us to appreciate the comforts of modern life in contrast to the hardships endured by past generations.

It was the role of the old people to teach the rangatahi (youth) tikanga as defined by Te Ao Maaori. Nana Ruruhira remembers kaumaatua would choose rangatahi to mentor and teach the traditional hapuu koorero and practices. The ways of Te Ao Maaori have been handed down over many generations through karakia (prayer), whaikoorero (speech), puuraakau (stories) and waiata (song).

The existence of Patupaiarehe (Fairy people) is a common koorero among Maaori across the motu (Aotearoa). As a child, Nana Ruruhira was often found in the garden conversing with the patupaiarehe for guidance and protection, as kaitiaki for the people. The practice remained with her in adulthood.

Nana Ruruhira was a Reiki Master, Te Hononga Reiki was her interpretation of a combination of two traditional healing methods Hono (Maaori), and Reiki revived in Japan in 1914. Growing up, Tohunga were the medical specialists within the hapuu. As an adult, Nana Ruruhira was humbled by the opportunity to return the gift of healing to the old people.

Nana Ruruhira (Cilla*) was born and raised at Hukanui, the youngest of seven children. Growing up the old people (kaumaatua) spoke te reo Maaori and were guided by the traditional Maaori values (tikanga) as defined by the old people.

In this touching video, Matua Tuku Puhipuhi shares his experiences growing up with his mother and father, highlighting the invaluable lessons they imparted about life. He particularly reflects on his father's profound impact, recounting moments such as speaking Maaori with his paapaa and sitting on the paepae during tangihanga. We are reminded of the importance of living in community through stories of his dad's involvement in the local school and Marae committee. Themes of patience and love weave through this heartfelt koorero.

Matua Tuku Puhipuhi shares the story of his journey in helping to revamp the Whare Kai at Hukanui Marae. Along the way, many special events occurred where people were able to contribute their talents, time, resources, and money to make this project a reality. This story reminds us of what can be achieved when good people work together, think creatively, and embrace generosity. We also learn about the relationship between the people living in and around Gordonton and Hukanui Marae.

Matua Tuku Puhipuhi shares his story about being introduced to the Waikato region and the Tainui waka from a very young age, emphasising how this early connection played a role in weaving together his family's genealogy. He explains how these traditions and historical ties serve to strengthen the bonds between Whaanau and Iwi, offering an insight into the cultural significance of genealogy.