Putting the Traditional back into Kai

July 7th 2010

Gathering traditional kai takes skill and knowledge – to ensure this is not lost is the aim of a programme just launched by Te Hauora O Ngati Rarua. The programme will also ensure proper tikanga is maintained in gathering kai, and promote better knowledge around traditional foods available locally in Marlborough.

Elders and guests attended the launch of Mai Ke Te Whenua at Parerarua Marae at the end of May.

Isobel Norton, Aunty Bub McDonald, Uncle Cappy McDonald

Isobel Norton, Aunty Bub McDonald, Uncle Cappy McDonald

“I’m excited about the opportunities to pass on the knowledge from our elders to other families,” says Hine Luke, Kaimahi of the project. “This is about more than gathering kai, it’s about increasing knowledge of healthier options and involving families with cultural awareness around traditional practices and associated words and concepts – and what’s more, people are more active as they get out to physically gather the food.”
Hine Luke, Maria Baxter

Hine Luke, Maria Baxter

Isobel Norton has been helping Hine to get the word out on the courses and they now have a regular 16 attendees. Courses are run on Fridays at Parerarua Marae, and anyone interested in improving their health through cultural traditional practices of food gathering, preparation and storage is welcome.

Isobel Norton, Coral Hedley & Lyn Bird

Isobel Norton, Coral Hedley & Lyn Bird

If you are interested or know of someone who would benefit from the course contact Hine at Te Hauora O Ngati Rarua hine@ngatirarua.co.nz or Isobel at Isobel@ngatirarua.co.nz or phone 03 5778404