Videos released on anniversary of signing Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Watch the videos produced for each of the Te Heke Whakangā exhibitions.
Today holds profound significance for Ngāti Rārua as it marks the day in 1840 when our tūpuna Te Tana Pukekohatu signed Te Tiriti o Waitangi in good faith at Kakapo Bay, Te Whanganui (Port Underwood). At Horahora Kākahu, the British proclaimed sovereignty over Te Waipounamu.
Despite this commitment to protecting rangatiratanga in Te Tauihu, a number of breaches occurred. Most notably, exactly three years later on 17 June 1843, the Wairau incident - a deadly clash over land at Tuamarino.
As we approach Matariki, this anniversary is a time to reflect on the resilience and enduring legacy of Ngāti Rārua, and remembering the whakatauki left for us:
Kia atawhaitia i te tangata i muri i a ahau, kia pai te noho.
Te Heke Whakangā videos released
To help us look back as we move forward, we are making available the videos put together for our Tiriti-focused exhibition, Te Heke Whakangā.
We also encourage whānau to visit the current The Heke Whakangā ki Mohua exhibition in Takakā before the end of July.
2026 Mohua
2025 Motueka
2024 Wairau
About Te Heke Whakangā
Te Heke Whakangā was first held in Wairau in 2024, Motueka in 2025, and this year is taking place in Mohua. The exhibits delve into the rich history and remarkable journey of Ngāti Rārua, from the departure from the Kawhia region in the 1800s to settlement in Te Tauihu and along the West Coast, and the long journey to reach settlement with the Crown for breaches of Te Tīriti o Waitangi.
Whānau gain a deeper understanding of our journey when they see the devastating effects of intentional Crown actions on our lands, resources, culture and people. Alongside that mamae are the stories of our resilience and successes.
