Project Pepeha

What is a pepeha?

Pepeha is a way of introducing oneself. Using a set structure it identifies who we are, where we’re from and where we belong. Pepeha is used in a Māori context and has a formal basis, but the idea is universal.

In a Māori context standing and sharing our pepeha is common practice. When it’s appropriate, especially at the start of a hui or gathering where we don’t all know each other, a pepeha is great way to make links and connect with others.

Discovering who we are and where we’re from is an important part of building our sense of identity and belonging. It can be very significant for those, who for whatever reason, have become distanced from their whānau or tūranga waewae.

Teacher Background knowledge: https://tereomaori.tki.org.nz/Reo-Maori-resources/Ka-Mau-te-Wehi/Video-gallery/Unit-14-To-tatou-maunga-Our-mountain/He-korero-whakamarama-The-mihimihi

More information: http://www.maori.org.nz/tikanga/default.php?pid=sp72&parent=71

Campbells Bay School Pepeha

IMG_0587.MOV

CBS PEPEHA COLOUR IN SHEETS

Two versions of our school pepeha: one is geared more towards junior grades and colouring in, the other, empty so that students can design their own pictures to match the pepeha.

Campbells Bay School Pepeha

Create a Pepeha with your family

A pepeha explains all about who you are and where you come from. It is special. You can work with your family to create YOUR OWN pepeha here. You can print it out and frame it.

EXTENSION: Make your MIHI:

Mihimihi are introductory speeches which take place at the beginning of a gathering after the more formal pōwhiri.

Mihimihi establish links with other people present. Mihimihi involve individuals standing to introduce themselves by sharing their whakapapa (genealogy, ancestral ties) and other relevant information. It is important for Māori to know and to share their whakapapa - to know one’s whakapapa is to know one’s identity.

A person will usually identify specific geographical features associated with their tribal area including their maunga (mountain), awa (river) and moana (sea). They may also identify their waka (ancestral canoe), hapū (sub tribe), iwi (tribe), marae and an eponymous ancestor. This information is considered more important than the individual’s own name which may be the last piece of information given in mihimihi.

Two exemplary units:

http://te-reo4springston.blogspot.co.nz/2014/07/mihi-for-kids.html

http://tereomaori.tki.org.nz/Reo-Maori-resources/Ka-Mau-te-Wehi/Introduction-to-the-units/Unit-14-Our-mountain

Waka learns about his whakapapa

Can you hear this family's:

mountain? Whitirea

ocean? Raukawa

ancestral waka (canoe)? Tainui

iwi (tribe)? Ngāti Toa