Te Ao Māori Values for Mahi Tahi (collaboration)

Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori – Māori Language week …so here is my “very poor” attempt at talking about some (not all) of the Te Ao Māori values that undergird successful Mahi tahi  - Collaboration.

As a Persian Kiwi, I acknowledge my place as manuhiri & am thankful for the opportunity to live in this land, Aotearoa. I am on a Te Reo Māori journey - after three years studying at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, a number of Noho Marae experiences & some very privileged opportunities to work in a Te Ao Māori context - this is still a “very poor” attempt and my accent is still a work in progress 🤣 But as my kaiko and friends might have been known to say - sometimes it’s been painful to listen, but whilst I have been challenged (wero) - I’m giving it a go!

Whāia te Reo Māori – Pursue the Māori Language

Briefly & to the best of my understanding:

• Whakawhanaungatanga is literally translated as the process of establishing relationships, relating to others or metaphorically it is about connecting at both a physical and spiritual level.
• Manaakitanga is about being hospitable, sharing kindness & generosity, and providing support...it's better to give than to receive.
• Kaitiakitanga is about guardianship, stewardship & trusteeship. It’s about protecting people, place and environment.