Rongoā Māori wānanga Tahi - Te Anau, Southland.
- pumanawahealing
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Rongoā Māori is a traditional healing practice that connects us deeply with nature, culture, and wellbeing. If you have ever wanted to understand what rongoā Māori truly means, how karakia, kawa, tikanga, and hauora practices shape these healing arts, then wānanga Tahi is a great place to start.
This gathering invites you to learn, share, and create in a safe and supportive environment, where you will also craft your own rongoā rākau to use at home.
What is Rongoā Māori?
Rongoā Māori is more than just herbal medicine- it encompasses physical body work like mirimiri and romiromi, wairuatanga (spirituality), It is a holistic approach to healing that moves beond the physical. The word rongoā means medicine or remedy, and just to name a few it encompasses:
Karakia: Prayers and incantations that connect us to spiritual guidance and protection.
Kawa: Protocols and customs that respect the sacredness of healing and the environment.
Tikanga: Cultural practices and values that guide respectful behaviour and relationships.
Hauora: The concept of health that balances mind, body, spirit, and family.
At Waananga Tahi, you will explore these foundations through open discussions , gaining a deeper understanding of how rongoā Māori supports wellbeing, whanau and community.
The Importance of Karakia, Kawa, and Tikanga
Karakia is the first step in any rongoā Māori practice. It sets the intention, and creates a safe space and practice. Learning the correct karakia helps you honour the plants and the healing process.
Kawa and tikanga ensure that healing is done with respect for the land, the plants, and the people involved. These customs vary between iwi (tribes), but the core idea is to maintain balance and harmony. At wānanga, you will learn how to apply these principles in your own healing journey and daily life
Hauora Practices in Rongoā Māori
Hauora is a holistic view of health that includes physical, mental, spiritual, and social wellbeing. Rongoā Māori supports hauora by using natural remedies alongside spiritual and cultural practices. This approach encourages healing that goes beyond symptoms to address the root causes of imbalance.
During the wānanga, we will explore hauora through practical exercises and discussions. You will learn how to incorporate these practices into daily life to improve your overall wellbeing.
Hands-On Experience with Rongoā Rākau
One of the highlights of wānanga Tahi is working with rākau—native plants used in rongoā. Then, you will create your own rongoā rākau to take home.
This hands-on activity helps you connect with the natural world and understand the healing properties of each plant. You will leave with practical skills to prepare and use your own remedies, empowering you to care for yourself and your whānau.
Why Choose wānanga Tahi in Te Anau?
Wānanga Tahi is designed to be inclusive and welcoming. Whether you are new to rongoā Māori or have some experience, you will find a supportive space to grow your knowledge and skills. The small group setting encourages sharing stories and building connections. Do I have to Māori to attend? - No, this workshop is for everyone and inclusive to all.
What to Expect at the wānanga
A warm welcome and introduction to rongoā Māori foundations.
Guided karakia
Discussions on kawa and tikanga with practical examples.
Exploration of hauora and how it relates to everyday health.
Crafting your own natural remedies to take home.
Time for questions, sharing, and reflection.
Preparing for the wānanga
To get the most from this experience, come with an open mind and comfortable clothing. Bring a notebook if you want to record insights. All materials for making rongoā rākau will be provided, As well as a light lunch (please let me know of any dietary requirements).
Join Us to Learn and Heal Together
Wānanga Tahi is more than a workshop; it is a chance to connect with Māori culture, nature, and your own wellbeing. By learning the foundations of rongoā Māori, you gain tools to support health in a meaningful way.
If you are in or near Te Anau, I invite you to join us for this special gathering. Together, we will explore ancient wisdom and create healing remedies that you can use at home. This is your opportunity to deepen your connection to the land and your own health journey.
Take the first step and reserve your place at wānanga Tahi today. Let’s gather, learn, and heal together.
