Join us for an unforgettable evening as we kick off our gathering with a traditional Māori Welcoming Ceremony, graciously hosted by our local partners. Beginning at 18:30, you'll be immersed in the rich cultural traditions of Aotearoa New Zealand, experiencing the warmth and spirit of Māori hospitality firsthand.
Following the ceremony, stay with us until 20:30 for a drinks reception where you can mingle, connect, and toast to new beginnings. It's the perfect opportunity to meet fellow attendees in a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere.
Māori Welcoming Ceremony
A mihi whakatau is a Māori welcoming ceremony. It is used to greet and integrate visitors (manuhiri) with hosts (tangata whenua) in settings that are often outside a marae, such as conferences. Its purpose is to acknowledge the mana (prestige) and tapu (sacredness) of individuals and create a sense of belonging and connection.
Purpose and Significance
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Cultural Connection: It upholds tikanga Māori (customs) by ensuring visitors are welcomed respectfully.
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Whakawhanaungatanga: Encourages building relationships and connections among participants.
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Removing Tapu: Symbolically lifts restrictions so visitors become part of the host group.
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Inclusivity: Often used in modern contexts to welcome new staff, students, or guests in a culturally appropriate way.
Mihi whakatau procedure
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Karanga (the formal, ceremonial call)
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Tangata Whenua invite manuhiri to move across to harirū/shake hands and hongi/press noses with tangata whenua/hosts.
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All guests will be guided to their seats
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A karakia/blessing is then recited
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Followed by a mihi/speech by the hosts
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When host speeches are completed manuhiri/visitors will be invited to speak
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All speeches are followed by a waiata tautoko/song of support
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The Kaikōrero (speaker) will provide guidance. This is followed by partaking in kai/food