New Zealand’s rich Māori culture gives it a point of difference on a global stage, and now, more than ever New Zealand businesses are seeking to harness its uniqueness. As a result of Treaty settlements, Māori are able to engage in the growth of New Zealand in ways reminiscent of the 1800’s when Māori were an economic and political force, so the desire to partner with Māori is growing.
As a nation we are growing our awareness that diversity and inclusion is essential for growth and success, while recognizing that learning the indigenous culture at home is the right starting point. If you want to deepen your understanding of Te Ao Māori to help you determine how Māori culture is relevant to you and your organisation, and to improve your ability to engage with Māori, then Te Kaa is for you.
Jette De Jong
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Jul 13, 2023 (13:00 - 14:00 / GMT+12)
In this webinar series, as we approach July 14 and the start of the Matariki new year, Donna Tamariki speaks to Brianne Te Paa, the author of the award-winning children's book How My Koro Became a Star/ Kua Whetūrangitia a Koro, and its significance to her and Matariki.
Brianne Te Paa
Ngāti Kahu, Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Te Aitanga-a-Mahaki and Te Whānau-a-Apanui), is an Assistant Principal at Kaipara College. She has a Bachelor of Education and a Diploma in Te Pīnakitanga ki Te Reo Kairangi.
Brianne is the author of the award-winning children's book How My Koro Became a Star/ Kua Whetūrangitia a Koro, available in both English and Te Reo Māori.
Her book tells the story of a young boy who learns about the customs around celebrating Matariki from his Koro (grandfather). They watch the stars from the top of a mountain, prepare their offering of food for the gods, and the boy learns about Te Waka o Rangi and the tradition of calling out the names of loved ones who have passed away so that they can become stars. Just before Matariki the following year, the boy's Koro suddenly dies.
He gathers and prepares the food offering, just as his Koro taught him the previous Matariki and asks each family member to come with him up the mountain but they all make excuses, leaving him disheartened. When he tells them what Koro taught him, they all climb the mountain before sunrise, follow the rituals Koro carried out and call out Koro's name so that he can become a star.
Brianne will share with us what inspired her to write this book and what Matariki means to her before doing a reading of 'How My Koro Became A Star' and concluding with a Q & A session.
Brianne is passionate about learning and has always enjoyed writing poetry and short stories as a creative outlet.
