IWI Recognised for Excellence in Cultural Programmes

Top of the south iwi Ngati Apa ki te Rā Tō was recognised at the Meke Māori Excellence Awards with an award for its cultural revitalisation programme. The awards dinner and ceremony was part of the Te Atakura Economic Summit 2015, held in Whakatū (Nelson) over two days from 19 November.

CEO Butch Bradley says whilst commercial development is a key priority for the iwi, of equal importance is putting in place cultural development programmes and initiatives.

“Culture differentiates and defines us; it builds a strong sense of identity and belonging,” said Butch Bradley.

“Building the Ngati Apa ki te Rā Tō economy is not simply about the numbers; it’s first and foremost about our people, establishing who we are, sharing our vision and values, and telling our story.”

“Our cultural revitalisation strategy - Te Ohonga Ake o Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō - has gone from strength to strength, with rangatahi (young people) and whānau members discovering and rediscovering their Ngati Apa ki te Rā Tōtanga.

“To have our efforts recognised by a panel of independent experts is an acknowledgement that the investment in revitalising our culture is delivering on our expectations.”

Ngati Apa ki te Rā Tō Cultural Advisor, Kiley Nepia, said he accepted the Award on behalf of all the Cultural champions; those who have devoted their lives to strengthening the language and culture of Ngati Apa ki te Rā Tō.

“Culture lies at the heart of who we are as a people and provides the values that we aspire to individually and as an organisation,” said Kiley Nepia.

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