Kai Rotorua

At the beginning of April, we gathered for a deeply significant moment in our māra journey — the unveiling of our pataka kūmara. 🌿

Te Kete Rokiroki a Whakaotirangi (The Secure Basket of Whakaotirangi) stood proudly above, marking a special occasion rich in meaning, whakapapa, and connection.

Guided by the wisdom and presence of our Kai Rotorua kaumātua Papa Paora Tapihana and Te Rangikaheke, alongside the beautiful mahi of Te Arawa Mahi Whakairo master carver Te Rangiuekaha Kingi, we honoured both the physical and cultural foundations of this kaupapa. The opening of the pataka stands as a powerful symbol of protection, sustenance, and intergenerational knowledge — a place to hold not only kai, but the stories and practices of our tūpuna.

Following this, our hauhake brought everyone together in a spirit of kotahitanga and manaakitanga. After months of preparation, planting, and nurturing, it was incredibly rewarding to harvest our first kūmara and rīwai crops — a reflection of collective effort, shared learning, and the strength of community. 🧡