Reflecting on Waitangi: The Power of Mihi and Pepeha
- Wāhi Āwhina
- Feb 4
- 3 min read
Todays Waitangi Day staff hui provided a meaningful space for reflection, connection, and growth as we continue to action what we have learnt about Te Tiriti o Waitangi and decolonisation. A key focus of this year’s hui was the practice of creating and sharing a pepeha or mihi, an integral part of acknowledging who we are and where we come from.
We began the hui with a brief recap of the history of the Treaty of Waitangi and He Whakaputanga, covering key milestones, breaches, and the ongoing revitalisation of te reo Māori and kaupapa Māori. This was followed by a summary of last year’s action points and initiatives, reminding us of the progress we have made through initiatives like kapa haka, hīkoi, professional development, and workshops on Te Tiriti.
Initiatives and kaupapa Mahi Mihinare were invovled in 2024: Koroneihana, Matariki, Toitū Te Tiriti
The central activity of the hui was dedicated to guiding staff in developing and sharing their mihi or pepeha. For Māori, pepeha is deeply tied to whakapapa, connecting them to their ancestors, land, and identity. For non-Māori, it’s an opportunity to acknowledge the land they grew up on and show respect to the ancestral lands and people of Aotearoa. Staff were supported and guided to ensure that everyone, regardless of their cultural background, could confidently craft a respectful pepeha.
Insights from Staff Reflections
During the session, we made time for staff to share their insights and reflections. One of the key takeaways was the reassurance from Māori leadership that for non-Māori, standing to say a mihi or pepeha in te reo Māori is not boastful. On the contrary, it is a powerful way to show solidarity, respect, and support for a process that is sacred and meaningful. This affirmation was significant, as it addressed a common concern among non-Māori—the fear of being perceived as inappropriate or overstepping boundaries.
However, what emerged from the discussions was that feelings of fear, insecurity, and inadequacy are not exclusive to non-Māori. Māori staff also shared similar triggers when speaking publicly or in formal settings, highlighting that these challenges are shared experiences. The key to overcoming these barriers lies in creating environments that foster safety and support.
More initiatives and kaupapa Mahi Mihinare were invovled in 2024: Kafe Kōrero, Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori, Tārore
The Role of Safety in Learning
Our mission is to support all staff by providing safe spaces to practice and grow. Understanding the concept of neuroplasticity - which is the brain’s ability to form new neural connections and pathways. The fastest way to learn and grow is when your brain is in a state of neuroplasticity, which only occurs when you feel safe in your learning environment. This is why creating a judgement-free space is crucial when encouraging staff to stand and share their pepeha or mihi.
We emphasised that there are no judgements when someone stands to speak. What matters most is their intention to be respectful and the guidance they have received from leadership to ensure that their words are appropriate and not offensive. Once these foundational aspects are in place, the primary focus becomes building the confidence to stand and speak.
Continuing Our Commitment
This hui reaffirmed our commitment to fostering confidence and cultural competence among staff. By providing opportunities to learn and practise in safe spaces, we are not only upholding the values of Te Tiriti o Waitangi but also equipping our team to represent our organisation with authenticity and respect. As we move forward, we will continue to create spaces where staff feel supported, knowing that their journey to understanding and connection is valued and embraced. Thank you to everyone who participated and shared their reflections. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected organisation where learning is continuous and respectful practice is a shared goal.
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