27 September, 2013

Summit encourages rangatahi involvement in tribal matters, activities

Encouraging rangatahi (youth) to play an active and positive role in tribal matters and activities is the driving force behind this year’s Waikato-Tainui Rangatahi Summit.

The three-day summit being held on October 1-3 is an opportunity for Waikato-Tainui rangatahi to come together and engage, learn and share knowledge and experiences that will strengthen their connection to Tainuitanga.

Rahui Papa, Chairman of Waikato-Tainui’s tribal executive Te Arataura, says rangatahi play an integral part in the future development of our iwi. “Rangatahi are our next generation of leaders so it’s important we support and encourage their involvement in tribal matters and activities.”

Held biennially, this year’s summit will see rangatahi examine areas that are a key focus for Waikato-Tainui, including the state of Waikato-Tainui reo, the significance of Kiingitanga, and the role of rangatahi within the discussion and implementation of tribal initiatives.

Mr Papa says, “The summit will provide rangatahi with a cultural and historical experience, which allows them to learn about our past while also getting them to think about how we can build a stronger future for rangatahi and the iwi as a whole.

“Our aim is to not only further their understanding of Waikato-Tainui as an iwi, but to also pave a way for rangatahi to be a part of discussions that will inform tribal initiatives going forward.”

Waikato-Tainui has more than 64,500 iwi members and about 70% of those members are identified as being under the age of 35.

The Waikato-Tainui Rangatahi Summit is held at Tuurangawaewae Marae, from October 1-3. Events and activities include presentations from tribal leaders, interactive workshops and discussions, and a Tira Hoe from Hamilton to Tuurangawaewae Marae, Ngaaruawaahia.

ENDS

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