Oranga Taiao, Oranga Tāngata

Image Credit: Ira Vision Media

On Saturday, 8 March 2025, uri of Ngāti Ira from near and far gathered in Ōpeke with a shared mission: to fulfil their kaitiaki role of the whenua and wai. This significant event saw 100 uri come together to clean the Waioweka Gorge, addressing the litter and waste discarded by passersby.

The collective effort spanned 70.9 kilometres of the gorge, from Waitangi to Matawai. This stretch of highway, which traverses Ngāti Ira land, follows the natural curves of the Waioweka awa and the Ōpato Stream. The cleanup was not just an environmental initiative but a profound expression of kotahitanga, reconnecting with the taiao, and restoring the land to its pristine state.

Image Credit: Ira Vision Media

Ngāti Ira, descendants of the tīpuna Irapuāia, have a rich history of environmental stewardship. Their ancestral practices emphasise the interconnectedness of people and the environment, a philosophy deeply rooted in their cultural values. This event was a manifestation of these values, including well-being (oranga), love (aroha), genealogy (whakapapa), guardianship (kaitiakitanga), and hospitality (manaakitanga).

The cleanup underscored the philosophy that the health of the people (oranga tāngata) is intrinsically linked to the health of the environment (oranga taiao). This belief is reflected in the traditional Māori concept of kaitiakitanga, which involves a deep, reciprocal relationship with the natural world, ensuring its protection and sustainability for future generations.

Key figures behind the organization of this kaupapa included Tawa Kingi, Shaah Gage, and the dedicated whānau of Kaimahi o Ngāti Ira ringa whenua. Their leadership and commitment were instrumental in bringing this initiative to fruition, showcasing the power of community and cultural values in environmental stewardship.

Image Credit: Ira Vision Media

By integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary environmental practices, Ngāti Ira continues to honor their ancestors and uphold their responsibility as kaitiaki, ensuring the land and waterways remain vibrant and thriving for generations to come.