In a nation with a rich indigenous history, Aotearoa has long grappled with reconciling its past and present. The process of reaching settlements between the government and ngā Iwi Māori has been a much-needed step toward healing historical injustices. It was an immense privilege to support Te Whakatōhea on their settlement hīkoi, standing shoulder to shoulder with whānau throughout this transformative process. 

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Historical Background

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The rohe is located in the eastern Bay of Plenty extending eastwards from Maraetotara, just west of Ohiwa Harbour through to Ōpape along the coastline, and inland to Matawai. The heartbeat and capital of the rohe is the beautiful town of Ōpōtiki.  

Te Whakatōhea has a long and storied history. For decades, Te Whakatōhea have endured raupatu and mamae, which has led to the subsequent social, economic, and cultural consequences for its people. The settlement process, initiated to address historical grievances, allowed Whakatōhea to seek justice and reclaim their ancestral lands. It was within this backdrop of historical significance that Atawhai Creative had the honour of supporting the iwi on their settlement hīkoi. 

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Emotional Investment 

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Walking alongside Whakatōhea whānau was a deeply emotional experience for our Atawhai team. With every step of the hīkoi, a powerful wave of emotion swept over our team, symbolising a collective determination to address the raupatu and create a brighter future for the Iwi. The sense of pride, resilience, and hope was palpable by all we connected with as we navigated through the beautiful landscapes that held important pūrākau of Te Whakatōhea tīpuna. Throughout this transformative journey, the yearning for reconciliation and the pursuit of healing were constant, steadfast companions.  

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In the company of Te Whakatōhea whānau, it was a privilege to witness the raw emotions that surged through the Iwi, intertwining into a shared tapestry of resilience, determination, and an unshakable belief in a better tomorrow. It was a journey that left a mark on every one of our team involved, forever reminding us of the power of manaakitanga, the strength of our tīpuna, and the profound impact that reconciliation can have on a community's collective spirit.

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Navigating Legal Complexities 

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The settlement process was a labyrinth of legal complexities, requiring a deep understanding of historical context and legal frameworks. It involved numerous negotiations, consultations, and careful examination of legal documents. It was an intricate dance that aimed to address past injustices while laying the foundation for a more equitable future for whānau. Our team was able to offer guidance on these complex narratives and deliver them in a way, both written and visual, that whānau could understand.  

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Our involvement in the Whakatōhea settlement hīkoi has been a privilege and a transformative experience. It has deepened our understanding of the profound impact of historical injustices and the power of reconciliation. We stand in awe of Te Whakatōhea whānau and their unwavering commitment to creating a brighter future for themselves and future generations. May their journey serve as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to honour and uplift indigenous voices in Aotearoa and beyond.