PĀNUI
NEWS
WAITANGI WHĀNAU DAY 2026.
(Community Connection & Engagement)
06 / 02 / 2026
Our Waitangi Whānau Day brought He Waka Tapu whaiora, kaumatua, whānau and the wider community together in a way that reflected the true spirit of Te Tiritī o Waitangi, connection, shared responsibility and collective wellbeing.
Music throughout the day, provided by Emile, set the wairua and created a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged people to stay, kōrero and connect. Alongside this, rongoā Māori services, raranga, kapa haka performances and pounamu workshops supported holistic hauora and the sharing of mātauranga Māori.
One of the highlights of the day was the incredible ground hāngī, prepared and served with care for our whānau. The hāngī was an expression of manaakitanga in action, bringing people together over kai and creating space for whakawhanaungatanga.
Huge mihi to our hāngī masters for delivering one of the best ground hāngī we’ve ever had.
We are grateful for the tautoko from Whai Rawa, Hāpai Te Hauora, the Pounamu Van, Christchurch City Council, Te Hā o Waitaha, Wāhine Ora, Ministry for Primary Industries Fishery Officers, and the many partners who contributed to the day.
Most importantly, we acknowledge the dedication of our staff, whose collective effort ensured the day ran smoothly and safely for our community.
Our Whānau Day reaffirmed the power of kotahitanga, strengthening relationships, deepening partnerships with iwi and hapū, and uplifting the wellbeing of our whaiora and wider community in the spirit of unity, equity and tino rangatiratanga.
