KAUMĀTUA KUIA – Luncheon at Kohewhata Marae 2020

TAITAMARIKI – Te Ara Moana, Tāmaki 2020

2 December 2020

Ministry of Health Case Updates

25 January 2021

KAUMĀTUA KUIA – Luncheon at Kohewhata Marae 2020

Published by Donna Tukariri at 4 December 2020

Photo overkill coming your way

Yesterday we succeeded in executing a well planned celebration for our Kaumātua and Kuia.

The plan was to accommodate up to 200 manuhiri and we achieved 170 comfortably. Yes, it was a little snug while we were having a kai but as soon as some of the plates were cleared and the tables packed down there was room for some FUN.
Like the AGM, our TRAION staff delivered this event with a small team. What was achieved was due to great planning, so a special thanks to our super staffer Lee Mason (Kaumātua Kuia Coordinator.) A lot of preparation had been done the night before, with the final touches in the morning. The table settings were beautifully decorated with kōrari flowers sitting underneath pohutukawa flowers. A lovely tribute leading to a reminder that the kina should be fat.

We reflect that we made some really good choices this year and want to say a special thanks to a few key contributors:

MC – Syd Tau

Band – Hokianga Country Music Club

Catering – Waiting staff from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori O Kaikohe and Northland College

Kaimoana – Whaea Materoa Mokaraka

Starting with a pōwhiri at 11am, and thanks to everyone for making the effort for that. We acknowledge that although we’re all Ngāpuhi and have been to Kohewhata Marae before, it’s always a wonderful opportunity to come together for whanaungatanga, hīmene, kōrero, and waiata. And that was inside before we got into the wharekai where the vibe continued.

We sat down to a wonderful kai at 12.20pm. The sound of corks being popped from bottles, the loud chatter which made the MC sound quiet, and the slurping of kina (once the little buggers were opened.) Nothing like a fresh kina on your table to make your mouth water.

The live band was a hit, playing a variety of music. Entertainment while we dined. Entertainment while we danced. They were so good, no one wanted to go home.

As with all things however the occasion wrapped up, but in a lovely fashion with a secret Santa style basket of goodies for you to choose from on your way out. Nothing too expensive, as the request was for each guest to bring a $5 wrapped parcel.

And just a reminder that it’s important to keep in touch with us. Check you’re registered and on the mailing list for our E Mara pānui. We’ll send updates straight to your email. Otherwise, keep in touch with your Takiwā to stay informed about iwi issues. Through the Takiwā you’ll also be kept up to date about regular kaumātua and kuia hui