Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

11 Hōngongoi 2010

"Ka hoki te rae tangata, ka hira te rae kai."
When human imrportance recedes that of food increases.
Whakatauki explained by Himiona Grace, nō Ngāti Pōrou, Toa Rangatira.

Ranginui Walker is famous for his steely gaze, which is code for not suffering fools. This was one of the many descriptions of the author and academic made at an event that celebrated the contribution he has made to Māori knowledge in the past 50 years. Maraea Rakuraku talks with the Whakatōhea scholar before he recounts memories from his early life and career with the New Zealand Qualifications Board.

Omaka Marae near Blenheim is located near an old air force airstrip and a two minute drive from the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. The need for a building to hold tangihanga in is what initially led to the marae establishment in 1981, though now it's used for much more, as Kylie Nepia explains. Justine Murray joins him for a tour of the complex taking in the wharenui, Te Aroha o te Waipounamu, the wharekai, Te Waiora and kaumātua lounge, Te Waiora.

Te Waiora wharekai (dining hall) at Omaka Marae.

Kylie Nepia, iwi development officer.

Te Aroha o te Waipounamu - mural by Bruce Baxter - inside the Wharetupuna