Founded in 2017, Te Pu-a Ngā Maara is a rangatahi-led collective of Taiao Innovators, born from the shared vision of Makaurau Marae, Manurewa Marae, and Papatūānuku Kōkiri Marae. We are dedicated to fostering environmentally sustainable and culturally grounded tikanga-based practices, ensuring the health and well-being of our whānau, hapū, rangatahi, and mokopuna for generations to come.
Our Journey
Our journey reflects a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and te ao Māori values, driven by the passion of our rangatahi and communities in Manurewa, Tāmaki Makaurau. From humble beginnings to impactful initiatives, we continue to revive, reconnect, and regenerate our taiao for future generations.
2017: The Birth of Te Kete Waiora
Our rangatahi in Manurewa, Tāmaki Makaurau, took a bold step toward environmental sustainability by developing Te Kete Waiora, an innovative water testing method for local streams and waterways, laying the foundation for our mission.
2018–2019: Indigenous Solutions and Recognition
Our Taiao Innovators, alongside our communities, shared Indigenous solutions for sustainable futures, uplifting our whānau. These efforts earned us the prestigious Mayoral Conservation Award, recognising our impact on conservation.
2020–2021: Expanding Our Pillars
We focused on Rangi, Whenua, and Moana initiatives, introducing drones for environmental monitoring, eliminating Para Kore pests, and promoting Rākau Māori. Through Te Kete Waiora, we shared Whakapapa Wai (water lineage) knowledge.
- Celebrated 5 years of impact.
- Established Te Kete Waiora as a company.
- Registered Te Pu-a Ngā Maara as a Charitable Trust.
2022–2023: Tuuhono ki Taiao and Community Impact
Te Pu-a Ngā Maara developed Tuuhono ki Taiao, a resource kete created by our rangatahi under the guidance of Zara Rihi Motutere, TPNM Kaikōkiri (Projects Manager). Key highlights included:
- Jobs for Nature on Puhinui Stream, including Awa Rangers and community planting days.
- Waitiaki water testing, pest trapping, and initiatives like Maramataka and Tirotiro Taiao.
- Celebrated the new Matariki public holiday with a two-day wānanga, “Te Mātahi o te Tau mō te Manurewatanga.”
- Hosted Tangaroa Giveback Days, opened Manu Tangi Ata, and supported planting along the Puhinui with kura and mana whenua.
2024: Growth and Recognition
Our Taiao Rangers expanded, and we celebrated Matariki with “Matariki ki te Puhinui.” We were honored to receive the Kūmara Award 2024, reflecting our growing impact. We furthered our mission to:
Revive – Ngaa Koorero Tuku Iho
Reawaken and elevate ancestral knowledge and practices.
Reconnect – Ki Te Ao Tuuroa
Restore and enhance our connection with the natural world.
Regenerate – Ngaa Tai o te Ao
Renew and enrich our environment.
Looking Ahead
We are excited to continue our journey, building on our initiatives to foster environmental sustainability, cultural connection, and community empowerment, guided by te ao Māori principles.
