Partnership, learning and progress acknowledged as Whitireia and WelTec host commemoration of Ngāti Toa Rangatira signing Te Tiriti

Guided by Jeanette Grace, Dean Te Wānanga Māori, and Te Ariki Wi Neera, Pou Whakamanawa (Engagement Advisor, Māori), the gathering provided a space for reflection, kōrero and hope for the future. Those in attendance were invited to consider what Te Tiriti means to them as individuals, professionals and members of our community.

Dr Leanne Ivil, Operations Lead and Director Teaching and Learning, shared kōrero on the strength of the relationship between Whitireia and WelTec and Ngāti Toa Rangatira.

“Our partnership is built on a foundation of shared values and a deep commitment to the success of our ākonga (students),” said Dr Ivil. “When we’re aligned in purpose, we create space for transformational change that leads to better outcomes for learners and their communities.”

Helmut Karewa Modlik, Tumu Whakarae of Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira, spoke to the enduring significance of Te Tiriti, acknowledging both the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead.

“We each carry our own history, but what defines us is what we choose to do with our time and how we move forward together,” said Mr Modlik. “We may not yet be where we want to be, but there is hope, and in that hope is the potential for unity, understanding and growth.”

Also in attendance were Porirua Mayor Anita Baker and Mana College Principal Jeff Chapman, both of whom shared personal reflections on the legacy of Te Tiriti and their aspirations for how its principles can be upheld across different sectors of society.

The gathering concluded with the sharing of kai and continued kōrero and the sentiment was reflected in the whakataukī:

Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi | With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.

A reminder of the importance of whakawhanaungatanga and the ongoing commitment to partnership, learning and progress.