About Us
The Urban Māori Authority of Ōtautahi (Christchurch)
“
Our language is the
plume of our identity
Hohua Tutengaehe, Founder
Te Rūnanga o Ngā Maata Waka Incorporated
Based at Ngā Hau e Whā National Marae in the eastern suburbs of Christchurch, Te Rūnanga o Ngā Maata Waka was founded to represent and uplift Urban Māori—those living away from their ancestral iwi and rohe.
Established in the 1970s by respected kaumātua such as the late Hohua Tutengaehe, the Rūnanga arose from a deep need: to create a united voice and support network for Māori from many iwi, now living in Ōtautahi.
The organisation was officially incorporated in 1989 and became recognised as an Urban Māori Authority.
Our name, Te Rūnanga o Ngā Maata Waka, means “the confederation of all tribes, all nations, all people, exclusive of none” This reflects our inclusive kaupapa—welcoming not only Māori but people of all backgrounds and cultures.
Te Rūnanga o Ngā Maata Waka Incorporated
Our Story
One of our founding leaders, Norm Dewes (Ngāti Kahungunu), arrived in Christchurch in the 1950s through the Māori Trades Training Scheme. He lived at Rehua Hostel and later worked as a union secretary for 27 years. His leadership has helped guide the Rūnanga from its earliest days into the vibrant community organisation it is today.
In our early years, we focused on providing education and training to those often left out of mainstream systems. We became an accredited NZQA provider and offered programmes in music, audio engineering, road safety, driving, and life skills. These were areas where Māori naturally excelled—and they became stepping stones to wider opportunities.
We deliberately welcomed those whom others turned away: ex-inmates, at-risk rangatahi, the homeless, and those struggling with illness or addiction. Over time, we built a reputation for delivering culturally grounded, effective support and services for the most vulnerable in our community.
Source
Christchurch City Libraries
Dewes, Norm. Interview by Helen Brown. Ngā Maata Waka head office, Madras Street, Christchurch, DAT recording, 14 July 2005.
The Rūnanga
Our Mission
To support the dreams and aspirations of our people, and to strive for independence with integrity.
At our heart, we are people-centered. Everything we do—whether in education, health, housing, or social services—is designed to enhance the wellbeing of Tāngata Whenua, Treaty Partners, and all New Zealanders, regardless of background.
We view the Treaty of Waitangi as one of the most powerful unifying symbols in Aotearoa and we work daily to honour its promise of partnership, protection, and participation.
Ngā Hau e Whā National Marae Trust chairman, Henare Edwards, left, deputy chairman, Alistair James, kaumatua Michael Tuhorouta Kaui, Norm Dewes, Maata Waka CEO, and Ruawhitu Pokaia, sign a memo of understanding at Ngā Hau e Whā National Marae.
The Values by which we will realise out mission
Our Values
Manaakitanga
We welcome and care for everyone who comes to our marae or services. We show kindness, respect and generosity in our words and actions.
Te Wero
We are willing to take on challenges and step into new opportunities. We adapt and find solutions even when things are tough.
Kia Tika Kia Pono
We act with integrity, honesty and fairness. We do what we say we will, and we make decisions that are right for our people.
Rangatiratanga
We take responsibility for our actions and lead by example. We empower others to have a voice and to make decisions for themselves and their whānau
Ngā Hau e Whā National Marae
Our Home
Ngā Hau e Whā, meaning “the four winds,” is a place of gathering for people from everywhere. It embodies our kaupapa of inclusivity and connection. It is also a hub where multiple agencies and community services work together for a common good.
We believe that education, community, and cultural identity are the keys to a brighter future. Through our Marae and the many programmes we offer, we are helping tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau realise their potential and determine their own futures—together.
Referral Process
Accessing our services here at Te Rūnanga o Ngā Maata Waka is simple.
Individuals can self-refer by filling out our online form below
or calling 03 382 6628 for more information.