The Mauri of Matatini has arrived in Wellington on its journey to the Ngāti Kahungunu region. Last night Te Atiawa and Ngāti Toa held a special welcome for Te Matau a Maui and its precious cargo.
It’s been a three day journey for Te Matau a Maui from Christchurch to Wellington.
Hira Huata says, “Returning the mauri of Matatini to Ngāti Kahungunu is hugely important. Not just for us but for the entire iwi Māori.”
This is the first stop for the mauri after its departure from the South Island and it’s hoped it will be taken to all marae throughout the Kahungunu region.
Huata says, “This is a real encouragement for Ngāti Kahungunu to stand up and welcome the masses that will be coming into our region.”
Haami Hilton, “Thirty years ago was the last time we held this event, but now Ngāti Kahungunu are excited to have the mauri back.”
Spokesperson for Ngāti Kahungunu on Te Matatini says by her tribe working together, they will be able to reach the high standard of hospitality set by Ngāi Tahu last week.
Huata says, “The tables were laden with oysters, kina, paua, and that will also happen in Ngāti Kahungunu, but we will also have fruit and vegetables, food from the land, it’s our specialty.”
No doubt a lot of hard work ahead of Ngāti Kahungunu.