In April 2023, Rangitāne o Wairau launched a video series highlighting their deep connection to Te Tauihu. The series is entitled Ngā Tapuae o Rangitāne with the first six episodes focusing on the Whakatū (Nelson) region.
This exciting initiative aims to fill a gap in the history books, as Rangitāne were wrongfully left out of the Nelson and Motueka tenths (agreements between Māori and colonial officials that divided land for settlement). These tenths profoundly impacted the region and its development, yet they completely ignored the presence and rights of Rangitāne.
The video series is an attempt to redress this imbalance and to showcase how Rangitāne have survived and thrived in the region for generations.
While the Crown’s apology is a positive step forward, initiatives like Ngā Tapuae o Rangitāne truly help bridge the understanding and foster a sense of shared history and identity in the region.
“Cultural revitalisation involves deeply understanding our cultural values, traditions and history. With this video resource, we hope to inspire our people and the wider community to learn, connect, and continue to strengthen our cultural identity,” says Project Lead Jodie Palatchie.
The project received support from a grant issued as part of Pouhere Taonga’s (Heritage NZ) Te Awe Kōtuku programme aimed at preserving and revitalising vulnerable mātauranga Māori.
To celebrate the launch of the video series, Rangitāne held a special screening at the Suter Art Gallery in Whakatū Nelson. The event was well received, with members of the iwi and wider community coming together to hear stories and learn more about how Rangitāne history is intricately woven into the Whakatū rohe.
We encourage everyone to take the time to engage with this important initiative and to learn more about the rich history of Rangitāne in Whakatū.
NGĀ TAPUAE O RANGITĀNE | WHAKATŪ
🎥 Ngā Tapuae o Rangitāne | Whakatū | Episode One
🎥 Ngā Tapuae o Rangitāne | Whakatū | Episode Two
🎥 Ngā Tapuae o Rangitāne | Whakatū | Episode Three
🎥 Ngā Tapuae o Rangitāne | Whakatū | Episode Four