On Saturday 27 August we launched ‘Hīkoi Waewae’ at Arahura Marae. It was well-attended with over 40 whānau present to support the kaupapa throughout the course of the day. Hīkoi Waewae is a walking/hiking/tramping rōpū based in Te Tai Poutini. During our hīkoi we will be learning mātauranga Māori including whakapapa, tikanga, karakia, te reo, ngā hua o te ngahere, and mihi pepehā.

We have incorporated the following values into our kaupapa. Whanaungatanga, Kaitiakitanga, Kotahitanga and Whānau Ora. Our aim is to reconnect with our whenua by walking in the footsteps of our tūpuna. To regain a sense of connection and belonging. Experience wellbeing through fitness and spending time in our natural environment, breathing clean fresh air and disconnecting from technology.

We had a presentation by Tim Shaw from the Department of Conservation, which covered health and safety, appropriate clothing and footwear, recommended gear list, informative websites, river crossing information and other helpful tips. Aunty Horiana Tootell taught us a waiata about home and also contains the names of some of our different types of pounamu. Included in our itinerary was a planning session for the Hīkoi Waewae rōpū. We dreamt together and pulled some dreams into the bubble, then worked out the steps we need to make along the way to ensure we achieve our goals.

Our funder, Te Pūtahitanga were represented by Trisha Harrison-Hunt who gave an informative kōrero about the current funding rounds and the role of Te Pūtahitanga in Te Waipounamu. In the evening we were held spell-bound by kōrero about our Whare Whakairo (Tūhuru), whakapapa and history of Te Tai Poutini which was presented to us by Jerry Pu and Caleb Robinson. We also enjoyed delicious kai prepared for us by Miriama Johnsen and Miriam Downs.

Whānau from the launch of Hīkoi Waewae.

Whānau from the launch of Hīkoi Waewae.

Hamiria Hutana taking in the views at the end of Truman Track.

Hamiria Hutana taking in the views at the end of Truman Track.

Jah-vana and Rititia Lilley at Lake Mahinapua.

Jah-vana and Rititia Lilley at Lake Mahinapua.

Rauhine and her moko Violet Curtis on the picnic point, Mananui walk way.

Rauhine and her moko Violet Curtis on the picnic point, Mananui walk way.

Ruahine and Lisa Mackey at Pororari river.

Ruahine and Lisa Mackey at Pororari river.