The theme of this year’s Toi Tangata Hui ā-Tau is “Te Ahi Kaiata” - The flame that consumes the morning. This kaupapa symbolises our deep connection to ahi as a source of warmth, sustenance, and ancestral presence. It leads us towards new possibilities, embodying a futuristic vision of hauora Māori and resilience.

Why Attend?

Engage in Dynamic Sessions: Participate in workshops and keynote sessions on Tākaro, Kori, Rangahau, and Kai, designed to challenge conventional thinking and inspire new strategies.
Build Community: Connect with like-minded individuals and strengthen your network within the Māori health, physical activity and kai sectors.
Innovate and Lead: Ignite innovation and leadership in Māori Health, using our knowledge systems to shape a thriving future.
Enhance Hauora Outcomes: Learn how to reclaim and enhance our tikanga and mātauranga to improve hauora outcomes for our people.

Who Should Attend?

Health providers
Community leaders and advocates
Those working in hauora or related social services

What’s Included?

Toi Tangata Registration packs
Keynote presentations
Haukāinga kōrero
Interactive workshops
Gala dinner

Keynote Snapshot

Professor Ngātai Taepa is a leading contemporary Māori artist whose work revitalises indigenous narratives through kōwhaiwhai and contemporary expression. Beyond his contributions to the art world, Ngatai has been instrumental in supporting the revitalisation of Puanga within the Waiwhetū community, ensuring that the ahi throughout the year – each marking a time of renewal and wellbeing – are upheld and strengthened.

A proud raukura, Te Wehi Wright brings deep expertise in Māori culture, strategy, and building cultural capital. With experience working at Tuaropaki Trust and Te Amokura, he has led successful projects that amplify cultural identity and create lasting impact.

Hinerapa Rupuha is CEO of Maiangi and a passionate advocate for revitalising te reo and tikanga Māori. As an educator and a trainee navigator under the guidance of Jack Thatcher, a leader in waka revival, Hinerapa is preparing for a major milestone: a navigation test from Aotearoa to Samoa, guided by ancestral methods of reading the stars, ocean swells, and natural signs. She is deeply committed to preserving and honoring the knowledge and legacies of our tīpuna.

Peter Cowan is a world-class Para va’a athlete. Peter has won two golds and a silver at the world waka ama champs, and in 2024, won silver at the ICF Paracanoe World Champs and bronze in the Men’s 200m VL3 at the Paris Paralympics Games.

Te Kahu Rolleston is a National Poetry Slam champion and former participant in The Banff Centre’s Indigenous Writing Programme. Te Kahu Rolleston weaves together the energy of kapa haka and the sharpness of battle rap to create poetry that challenges, inspires, and connects.

Accommodation

There is limited accommodation available at Te Kakano o Te Aroha Marae marae (2km from Waiwhetu Marae). Spots are available on a first-serve basis.

If you would like to book your own accommodation, below are some options:

Settlers Motor Lodge
Abbeycourt Motel
Champers Motor Inn
The Sebel Wellington Lower Hutt
Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park
The Angus Hotel

Together, we will conceptualise strategies to pass on the flame of Te Ahi Kaiata, igniting passion, strength, and resilience within our communities.

The Toi Tangata Hui ā-Tau is the leading kaupapa Māori based hauora conference in the physical activity and nutrition space - you won’t want to miss it!

For more pātai, please feel free to contact us at info@toitangata.co.nz.

FAQs

What do I bring?

Kori: Activewear, waterproof jacket, hat, warm layers - thermals (in case of cooler/wet weather), walking/sport shoes, sunscreen, togs and towel for optional waka ama activity

Kōrero: Notebook and pen, device that can access Wi-fi, charging devices

Do I need to bring my own kai?

We will be providing morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea over all three days. A Gala Dinner will be provided on day 2. If you have dietary requirements, please specify them in your registration. Feel free to bring any special foods you prefer for such events.

Can I transfer/cancel my registration?

Any changes in registration must be made in writing to info@toitangata.co.nz. Cancellations must be made at least 7 days before the event. A 50% registration fee will be charged for cancellations made after this time.

What payment options are available for registration?

Bank transfer and credit card payments are accepted.

Do I have to participate in the activities?

Participation is always optional but note that many learnings during this Hui ā-Tau will occur through activities such as walking, taonga tākaro and korikori.

Is it necessary to sign a waiver for this Hui ā-Tau?

Yes, it is essential to read and sign a waiver to acknowledge and understand the health and safety risks associated with the Hui ā-Tau workshops.

Do I have to attend the powhiri?

Āe, it is essential to attend the powhiri for Waiwhetu marae. If unable to attend, please inform us during registration or email info@toitangata.co.nz.

I have a question that you haven't covered…

Email your questions to info@toitangata.co.nz and we will get back to you promptly.