The external structure of Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga is based on foundations and relationships that have been handed down - ngā taonga tuku iho.
We also support the wider community and pursue new relationships for the benefit of Ngāti Kahungunu ki Heretaunga.
Relationship to Ngāti Kahungunu
Alongside natural affiliations to Ngāti Kahungunu, Te Taiwhenua
o Heretaunga is one of six (6) Taiwhenua who share a common charter
that ensures the Taiwhenua collectively are able to participate in
the shared governance of Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated.
Each Taiwhenua is represented on the Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi
Incorporated Trust Board and sector Rūnanga at the Iwi level, to
participate in and contribute to Iwi-wide issues and
developments.
Relationship to Marae, Hapū and Whānau
Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga has strong relationships with Marae,
Hapū, whānau and the wider community through the Te Haaro Board of
Trustees who are mandated members of seventeen (17) Marae
representing the interests of the Māori community. These
representatives take a leading role in directing the organisation
to ensure it reflects the aspirations of our people and caters to
their need.
Wider Community
Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga governance and staff actively
participate in, support and/ or sponsor community events and other
activities in addition to participating in external committees and
forums. For example three years ago Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga
staff were among the first volunteers in the Breakfast in Schools
initiative at Kimiora School in Flaxmere and they have continued to
participate, being the only volunteers remaining.
Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga hosts and administers the Māori
Provider Network made up of other providers and agencies who meet
monthly (second Tuesday of the month) to share information and
provide support for Māori-led initiatives.
Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga has entered and continues to pursue
relationships at local and regional level in order to participate
in strategic planning and decision making around issues affecting
Ngāti Kahungunu ki Heretaunga.
