He Toi Ora- Professional Learning Development

Rangiriri, Waikato

He Toi Ora- Professional Learning Development

For Ages 15+ • 4 Hours • Visit 4 Significant Maaori Cultural Sites with Maaori Guide

Select participants and date

Date

Mon, Oct 6

Travelers

2

About This Adventure

Experience the He Toi Ora Professional Learning Development programme, where educational leaders engage with Mana Whenua narratives to foster transformational change. This interactive 4-hour journey includes visits to significant historical sites like Rangiriri Paa, offering unique insights into the Waikato invasion and its impact on local communities.

Duration

4 Hours

About

He Toi Ora Professional Learning Development programme is designed for educational leaders, Non Government Organisations, Public sector, Tertiary sector, Health sector, and Iwi organisations to embrace Mana Whenua narratives, to empower people, students and teachers that enable transformational change through having a greater understanding of the historical injustices inflicted on Waikato Iwi and the Kiingitanga. The Rangiriri invasion by military forces is considered to be one of the bloodiest battles during the crown invasion of Waikato. The programme aligns itself naturally with the NZ History Curriculum. This PLD is interactive and will include activities tailored to all learning styles. Participants will have the honour to hear directly from Mana Whenua and visit sites of significance such as the remnants of the original Rangiriri Paa earthworks and the world's first Maaori replica earthwork trenches built to its original scale.

The Experience He Toi Ora Professional Learning Development includes waananga about the origins of the King Movement, the intent of the crown invasion and intergenerational trauma. Participants will visit historic sites of significance including Te Maataarae ki Rangiriri (old paa site & military redoubt), the remnants of the original Rangiriri Paa earthworks and the world's first Maaori replica earthwork trenches built to its original scale. You will learn of the local narratives about the atrocities of the Waikato invasion and the stories behind the carved pou (carved posts) and tomokanga (carved entrances) carved by Kingitanga Master Carvers.

Useful information

Know Before You Go

Please arrive 15 minutes before your Mihi Whakatau (welcoming ceremony) and allow an additional 10 minutes to purchase merchandise or take photos.
Dress for the weather as your tour is outdoors.
Have a snack and stay hydrated prior to arrival.
Restrictions regarding flash photography and video recordings.
Be sunsmart, wear hats for sun protection and sunscreen.
Wear comfortable enclosed shoes. We advise against wearing jandals, sandals, slip-on and high heels.
Merchandise is available for purchase, limited stock available
Some limitations for wheelchair accessibility in the trenches

Adventure Tips

Bring comfortable walking shoes

Rangiriri Paa involves walking over uneven historical terrain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Respect cultural sites

Follow guidance and maintain reverence at sacred sites to honor local history and Mana Whenua.

Plan for the weather

Weather can vary; bring rain gear or sun protection as needed.

Allocate sufficient time

Set aside at least four hours for the full programme to experience it fully.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Kea (native parrot)
Longfin eel

History

Rangiriri Paa was the site of a fierce battle during the Waikato Wars in 1863, shaping New Zealand’s colonial and indigenous history.

Conservation

Efforts are focused on preserving the site’s earthworks and native flora, ensuring its stories and landscapes are maintained for future generations.

Cultural & Educational Trip at Rangiriri Paa by He Toi Ora

Difficulty

Duration

Fitness Level

Overview