Bay of Plenty Migrants Welcomed at Maungatapu Marae in Spirit of Unity and Cultural Exchange
In a powerful celebration of community, culture, and connection, more than 350 migrants and their families were formally welcomed onto Maungatapu Marae in Tauranga as part of the annual “Pōwhiri for Migrants to the Bay of Plenty” on November 9, 2024. This heartwarming event, jointly hosted by Ngāi Te Rangi iwi and Multicultural Tauranga, symbolized a growing spirit of inclusion and partnership between tangata whenua (people of the land) and newcomers to the region.
The day began with a traditional pōwhiri – a Māori welcoming ceremony – followed by a shared hāngī meal, cultural performances, and interactive workshops that gave participants the chance to experience aspects of Māori culture first-hand. Activities such as tukutuku panel weaving and poi making were highlights for many attendees, especially those engaging with Māori customs for the very first time.
Premila D’Mello, President of Multicultural Tauranga, spoke movingly during the event, expressing deep gratitude to the iwi for opening their hearts and their home. “You have given us tūrangawaewae,” she said, referencing the Māori concept of having a place to stand and belong. “Today, we plant roots and grow together.”
Roimata Ah Sam, deputy chief executive of Ngāi Te Rangi, emphasized the significance of such cultural exchanges, noting that some attendees had lived in Tauranga for years but had never stepped onto a marae before. She highlighted the importance of creating shared spaces for dialogue, learning, and mutual respect in an increasingly diverse Aotearoa.
This annual event is not only a welcome to new residents but also a powerful gesture of manaakitanga (hospitality) that bridges cultures and fosters long-term understanding. As Tauranga continues to grow and evolve, initiatives like this stand as vital touchstones of unity and shared identity.
Article and Image original source: Bay of Plenty migrants welcomed on to Tauranga’s Maungatapu Marae – NZ Herald