Published: 6 August, 2025
Waitoari, Waiora | Whānau Planting Day
Nau mai e te whānau, we welcome you to join us as we bring ora (life and vitality) back to a treasured waipuna (spring) through the Waitoari Waiora project, a wetland restoration and protection kaupapa in Koromiko.
This is more than just a planting day, it’s a chance to reconnect with the whakapapa of our whenua and the mātauranga of our people. The waipuna and repo (wetland) in Koromiko is a significant area for Te Ātiawa, once rich in harakeke for weaving, paru for dye, and kai such as tuna, kākahi, and inanga. This area was intimately known by our tūpuna and formed part of a thriving mahinga kai that sustained generations of whānau from Waitohi, Ngākuta, and Waikawa Pā.
Why it matters:
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Waipuna and repo are rare and ecologically important ecosystems
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Puna are sacred as life-giving waters, which carry deep whakapapa and mauri.
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They are home to taonga species and were once key harvesting sites.
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Restoration will strengthen biodiversity, reduce pollution, and support our ongoing role as kaitiaki.
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This kaupapa is a vital part of revitalising mātauranga Māori, enabling intergenerational learning and reconnecting with tikanga-based environmental practices.
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As part of the Whale Trail, this site offers an opportunity to share our kōrero with manuhiri through cultural interpretation and education.
Guided by our values, kaitiakitanga, whakapapa, and intergenerational care. This mahi restores not only the whenua and wai, but our ability as iwi to lead, protect, and pass on knowledge. Our tamariki, our whānau, and our hapori all have a role to play.
Bring your tamariki, this is whānau mahi, come and kōrero, plant alongside us, and be part of laying the foundation for a healthy, thriving taiao, where the puna flows clear, and our tikanga lives on.
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Sunday 31 August 2025
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11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Rēhitatia mai | Register your Interest Now! https://forms.monday.com/forms/ccdbe72b6e3fede401972dc00d063f37?r=apse2
Whakahaumanu te Waitoari, kia ora te puna manawa whenua.
Restore the translucent waters of te Waitoari, and the deep spring will be revived.