WHATU + CO - Tupuna Guided, Atua Led

A place of discussion, learning and connection

The dreams, hopes and aspirations embedded in this whare are to normalise, share and explore mātauranga Māori in a fun way

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An introduction to Te Ao Māori through contemporary Māori design

A contemporary, fun and engaging visual experience for tamariki that draws from customary Māori artforms and narratives of atua Māori and our creation stories.

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Welcome to WHATU + CO

The Wharenui adorned with the art of Whaikairo, tukutuku and Kowhaiwhai are an embodiment of our ancestors and our world. It is a place of discussion, learning, connection, and a space of Rongo- peace, perception and awareness.

The dreams, hopes and aspirations embedded in this whare are to normalise, share and explore mātauranga Māori in a fun way, that connects tamariki, teenagers and adults to Te Ao Māori (the Māori world).

The design concept takes inspiration from Te Ao Māori. The idea was to create a contemporary, fun and engaging visual experience for all. The intention is to be an introduction to Te Ao Māori through contemporary Māori design, that draws from customary Māori artforms and narratives of atua Māori and our creation stories.

Core Values

1. Whakapapa (Genealogy/Ancestry)
The emphasis on ancestral wisdom and guidance reflects the value of whakapapa, which acknowledges the interconnectedness of past, present, and future generations in shaping Māori identity and knowledge transmission.

2. Manaakitanga (Hospitality/Respect)
The commitment to nuturing learning within the Marae embodies the value of maanakitanga, which emphasises the importance of hospitality, respect, and care for others

3. Aroha (Love/Compassion)
The focus on empowering learners through cultural education and spiritual guidance reflects the value of aroha, which encompasses love, compassion, and empathy in fostering relationships and connections within the community.

4. Whakamana (Empowerment)
The concept of empowering learning in the marae reflects the value of whakamana, which relates to empowering individuals to reach their full potential, embrace their cultural identity, and contribute meaningfully to society.

5. Kaitiakitanga (Guardianship/Stewardship)
The recognition of the marae as a vital resource for cultural education underscores the value of kaitiakitanga, which pertains to the responsibility of safeguarding and preserving cultural heritage, traditions, and natural resources for the future generations.

These values are foundational to Māori culture and education, guiding interactions, relationships, and practices within the community and reinforcing the significance of ancestral wisdom, spiritual guidance, and cultural preservation in educational endeavors.