MANAAKITANGA

My first experience of manaakitanga was during my year as a trainee forest ranger. I was asked by a Māori workmate to take family photos at their home. I arrived late morning, took the photos and was about to leave when Ivan asked me to stay for lunch. What a lunch it was! Plate after plate was placed on the table. Their generosity of spirit and amazing hospitality left a lasting impression on me. 
In Māori culture, manaakitanga is most often associated with being welcomed on to a marae and a meal shared with tangata whenua (people of the land) and manuhiri (guests) but as you read on you will see that it is much more than that. 
It’s about looking for opportunities to help a friend or loved one. Being generous with our giving and taking time to build relationships with people. Respecting and being loyal to each other when the going gets tough. Being humble and serving others. Encouraging people and looking for the good in them. Showing compassion and love in the best and worst of times. Caring for our beautiful country wherever you are. 
In recent years I had the privilege of working with Ms Naaz Shah in the Hamilton Boys High School Multicultural Manaaki Centre with students (ex refugees) who had fled with their families to make a new start in New Zealand. Other committed teachers and senior students also assisted in helping these students achieve academic success and social integration in a safe and nurturing environment. Such an appropriately named centre!







Comments

  1. Anaru BMarch 6, 2025 at 7:33 AM

    Love reading your blog Steve. Shivers did you get the pork bones and puha, rewana bread ? You have always shown Manaakitanga ❤️

    ReplyDelete
  2. taniashipuldmMarch 7, 2025 at 4:40 AM

    My first experience of manaakitanga was during my year tania shipul digital marketer
    as a trainee forest ranger. I was asked by a Māori workmate to take family photos at their home.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Alicia MMarch 7, 2025 at 7:18 AM

    I loved reading about manaakitanga and how it reflects respect and care for others. It is such a powerful concept that goes beyond hospitality, creating a deep connection with the community. Thank you for sharing this enriching approach, it makes me reflect on how we can incorporate more of these practices into our own lives.


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    ReplyDelete
  4. Juli BlogMarch 8, 2025 at 7:23 AM

    Love reading your blog Steve. Shivers did you get the pork bones and puha, rewana bread ? You have always shown Manaakitanga ❤️sahela akter dm

    ReplyDelete

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