Te Kawa Matarau

Te Kawa Matarau is a kaupapa Maaori approach to governance for Ngaa Rauru Kiitahi. It is about strengthening how we make decisions together – now and for future generations – in a way that reflects our tikanga, values, and collective responsibilities.

 

This kaupapa has been developed by our Paepae over several years and is grounded in our koorero, our paepae traditions, and our commitment to mana motuhake and rangatiratanga. It is not something new or imposed from outside – it comes from our people.

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What is Te Kawa Matarau

Te Kawa Matarau is a values‑based governance philosophy that guides how decisions are made and how governors behave at the table. It helps ensure that every decision reflects who we are as Ngaa Rauru Kiitahi, not just what we are required to do.

 

In simple terms:

• Structure tells us who sits at the table

• Te Kawa Matarau tells us how we act when we are there

 

Why are we talking about this now?

At the 2025 AGM, uri endorsed Te Kawa Matarau as the preferred direction for governance. We are now in a consultation phase to explain how this would work in practice and to hear feedback from uri before any decisions are made.

 

This consultation is about:

• Sharing information

• Seeking clarification

• Hearing whakaaro

• Refining the model together

 

Nothing is being adopted at this stage. Any change will only happen with the approval of uri.

 

What is being proposed?

Te Kawa Matarau proposes a hybrid governance model.

 

This model is designed to balance:

• Representation (ensuring voices from across our iwi are heard), and

• Capability (ensuring strong governance, strategic thinking, and accountability)

 

The proposed model includes three nomination pathways:

• Ahi Kaa – the voice of Ngaa Rauru within the rohe

• Taurahere – the voice of Ngaa Rauru living outside the rohe

• Ringa Rehe – skills‑based appointments (governance, strategic, and specialist capability)

 

All adult registered uri would have the opportunity to vote across these pathways.

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This is not about reducing representation, but about strengthening governance so decisions are clear, accountable, and focused on the long‑term wellbeing of our iwi.

 

Why your feedback matters

Te Kawa Matarau must be owned by the iwi – not just by governance. Your feedback helps ensure:

• Integrity in the process

• Trust and confidence in the outcome

• That the model always serves the people, not itself

 

If change is to occur, it must have the support and approval of uri.

 

What happens next?

We are currently in a consultation phase. There is time to think, discuss with whaanau, and come back with whakairo.

 

Over the coming months:

• Feedback will be gathered and considered

• The model will be refined based on what we hear

• Any proposed changes will be shared openly before going to the AGM

• If approved by uri, further consultation and a formal ballot would follow

 

Have your say or seek clarification

We encourage uri to take time to reflect, ask questions, and share whakaaro.

 

You can:

Email: feedback@rauru.iwi.nz

Phone: 06 346 5706

Visit: www.rauru.iwi.nz

 

This kaupapa is about strengthening how we carry ourselves into the future – together.