Horopaki - Context

Piupiu is a traditional Māori skirt, crafted from flax and worn during cultural performances. It features intricate weaving and rhythmic movement, symbolizing the rich heritage and artistic expression of the Māori people. The piupiu's distinctive look and sound enhance the storytelling in Māori dances. Te Oranga Reo Rumaki has been presented with the opportunity to harvest muka from Parawera Marae to make piupiu for our roopu kapahaka, Kahurangi ki uta. We are proposing an 8 waananga piupiu campaign spanning over 8 months.  

Whainga - Goals

1. Cultural Preservation and Education:

   1. Objective: To teach and preserve the traditional art of piupiu making, ensuring that the knowledge and skills are passed down to the next generation.

   2. Outcome: Participants will gain hands-on experience in harvesting muka, preparing flax, and weaving piupiu, deepening their understanding and appreciation of Māori cultural heritage.

2. Strengthening Community and Group Identity:

   1. Objective: To foster a strong sense of community and identity within Kahurangi ki Uta through collaborative creation and shared cultural practice.

   2. Outcome: The wānanga will provide a space for members to bond, share stories, and work together, reinforcing the group's unity and collective pride in their cultural roots.

3. Enhancing Performance and Storytelling:

   1. Objective: To create high-quality, personalized piupiu that will enhance the visual and auditory impact of Kahurangi ki Uta's performances.

   2. Outcome: The distinctive look and sound of the newly crafted piupiu will elevate the group's storytelling in their dances, providing a more authentic and powerful representation of Māori heritage during performances.

Facilitators and Supporters

The wānanga will be supervised by Whaea Mardi Walker, facilitated by Whaea Lee-Anne Wade, and supported by Whaea Rangi Maria Thomas, Whaea Kiri Key, and Ma Paris Simpson. Furthermore, all individuals involved, including whānau providing catering support, transporting participants, and fundraising will undergo a thorough vetting process to ensure the safety and security of all participants.

Cost

The total expenditure for all wānanga is $24,020.86, covering facilitation costs and necessary resources. Parawera Marae has generously allocated $3000.00 for catering and venue expenses for the first wānanga.

In addition to this funding, we will implement a nominal fee for participation in each wānanga from the attendees. This fee will help offset some of the costs of organizing the sessions. Furthermore, we welcome donations from participants and community members to contribute toward kai (food) expenses during the wānanga, ensuring that everyone is well-fed and nourished throughout the sessions. Additionally, we will undertake fundraising efforts and seek financial support from sponsors and funding sources to further bolster our resources for the campaign.

Venue

The wānanga will occur across two venues. The first session will commence and conclude at Parawera Marae, located at 11 Owairaka Road, Parawera. Subsequent sessions, totaling six wānanga, will take place at the Te Oranga Reo Rumaki Unit, situated within Papakura High School, Papakura.

Waananga Dates

The wānanga will span three days, commencing on Friday at 6 pm and concluding on Sunday at 6 pm. The first session is scheduled to start on May 17th, 2024, with subsequent dates for completion in December 2024 yet to be confirmed.

Student Selection Process

The selection process for students will involve several considerations to ensure the effectiveness and inclusivity of the program:

1. Interest and Commitment: Students who express a genuine interest in learning about piupiu making and demonstrate a commitment to attending all wānanga sessions will be prioritized.

2. Availability: Preference may be given to students who have the availability to participate in the entire 8-month campaign, as consistency and continuity are important for skill development and community building.

3. Diversity and Inclusivity: Efforts will be made to ensure diversity and inclusivity within the group, considering factors such as age, gender, cultural background, and skill level.

4. Capacity and Resources: The number of students selected may also depend on the capacity and resources available, including the availability of mentors, materials, and venue space.

5. Application or Nomination Process: Depending on the program's structure, students may be required to fill out an application form or be nominated by teachers, mentors, or community members who can vouch for their interest and suitability for participation.

6. Interview or Assessment: In some cases, an interview or assessment process may be conducted to evaluate students' motivations, previous experience, and suitability for the program.

By considering these factors, the selection process will aim to create a diverse and committed group of students eager to learn and contribute to the piupiu-making campaign.