The Marae is our principal home in which we strive to retain, practice and emulate the positive traditions that identify us as Māori. At the core of our being is the ritual to farewell our people within our cultural practices.
Whakatū Marae is a physical conduit which embraces our departed as they make their journey and return home…
He karere kia uru tupapaku ki runga i te marae:
Whakatū Marae receives a request/is informed that whānau wish to bring their mate to the marae. Tangihanga is a priority for WM and a process begins to accommodate.
The Kaitiaki or nominated person, in a timely manner will arrange a meeting with a whānau representative to talk about the various roles and responsibilities for hui mate. This discussion is to ensure that the whānau pani has everything they need and assures that Whakatū Marae places importance and priority to provide a haven and culturally appropriate environment for the Tangihanga. Skill and tact is required when discussing these details and should be reserved for those experienced in this.
When the whanau pani will arrive – duration of stay if known.
Catering aspects (whanau pani usually nominate a whanau member to coordinate this)
Assurance of the tikanga & kawa rituals applicable to Whakatū Marae during hui mate. Support needed for the whanau pani if any to insure the cultural aspects are observed
Photos (deceased only) & flowers in Kaakati are welcomed
Financial aspects: an unset koha reflective to the use of facilities, 1st meal etc
At conclusion of the Tangihanga, final clean-up is the responsibility of the whānau pani.
Appointed contact person/s from whānau pani > Kaitiaki/appointed marae member
The paramount action for Whakatū Marae is to ensure that we embrace, support, and give comfort to the whānau pani and those accompanying them through this journey. We do not judge, expect, demand or cause undue stress - Ko te mea nui, he tangata!
